A rationale for revitalization planning in small rural towns: a case study

Abstract

Central Business Area Revitalization Planning theory and practice has evolved from a concern with physical revitalization to an emphasis on a comprehensive approach which includes areas such as housing and recreation, which had not in most past cases been viewed as relevant to the undertaking. The current thinking views all aspects of town planning as inter-related and approaches the task in a holistic manner. The methodologies utilized in Planning for Central Business Area Revitalization have evolved as well. Detached consultant planning, which included little or no public involvement and which produced inflexible plans which outlined the way to revitalization, has evolved to a flexible, dynamic approach, which involves those responsible for implementation at all stages of planning; thereby, reflecting their beliefs, attitudes and values and having high probability of implementation. Successful efforts to revitalize the central business areas of rural towns require an informed leader who will function as an educator, and a planning and design process which leads to implementation through its participant centered, incremental, multiple objective approach.