(KAIR)--Two forthcoming public input sessions, with the first this week, will be held virtually for those interested in what meeting registration information calls “an exciting process to define a new vision [for Atchison] through placemaking,” which is defined as “a people centered approach to building strong, vibrant communities.”

According to a release, Atlas Community Studios and McClure, in partnership with USDA Rural Development and their team at the Innovation Center, “have partnered with the City of Atchison and a diverse group of local leaders to develop a placemaking action plan” for the City.”

The release says the purpose of the action plan “is to assist the City of Atchison with implementing innovative placemaking strategies and catalytic projects to improve quality of life for current and future residents.”

Atlas Community Studios, on its website, defines itself as “a team of problem solvers, artists, and innovators” who help “rural communities plan for growth through collaborative strategic planning, and simple to execute, realistic plans.”

McClure President Dennis Folden, on the company’s website, says their “vision is making lives better...through engineering, surveying, and community development.”

The release from the City notes that the placemaking action plan will focus on three key priorities: housing, cultural amenity, and downtown revitalization.
The City continues its ongoing efforts to enhance the downtown district, including the demolition of the long-standing, downtown pedestrian mall.

The City calls public feedback "critical to ensuring [that the City has] a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities Atchison faces as it looks to the future."

That feedback can be provided during what are being called two Virtual Visioning Sessions to kick-off the local placemaking process.

The first of the two sessions, to be held on the Zoom online meeting platform, will be Thursday afternoon from 12 noon until 1:30, followed by the second session on the morning of Tuesday, April 27, from 8:30 until 10:00.

Advance online registration is needed from residents interested in providing input during one, or both, of the sessions.