Report Prepared by: Jonnie Lan, AICP, Acting Planning Manager, Development Services Department
Title
SUBJECT: Merced Comprehensive General Plan Update and Downtown Station Area Plan
REPORT IN BRIEF
The City of Merced is undertaking a Comprehensive General Plan Update and the creation of a Downtown Station Area Plan. A comprehensive General Plan update is a periodic revision and update of the City’s long-term planning document, which serves as a blueprint for future development and conservation. The last General Plan was adopted in 2012. Over the past several years, individual chapters have been revised as needed. However, due to changes in State law among other things, it has been determined that it is time for the General Plan to be comprehensively updated.
A General Plan addresses a broad range of issues related to land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and community well-being. Updating it at regular intervals ensures the plan remains relevant and effective.
Through the process the community will define the Planning Area, the long-term community vision for the future (spanning about 20 years or more), establish goals, objectives, policies, and establish implementation measures to achieve that vision.
Mandatory elements or chapters include Air Quality, Land Use, Circulation, Housing, Conservation, Open Space, Noise, Environmental Justice and Safety. The City of Merced will also consider other chapters like Economic Development and Public Facilities.
This process will involve extensive public participation. One way to participate is to attend the many public meetings and events. The other way would be to participate in the Citizen Advisory Focus Group (CAFG). The CAFG is made up of a number of appointed participants including one voting member of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Commission. If you are interested, please contact the City of Merced City Clerk at cityclerk@cityofmerced.org <mailto:cityclerk@cityofmerced.org>.