Manhattan, Kansas

Clarion Associates led a multi-disciplinary team in an effort to update the 2003 Manhattan Urban Area Comprehensive Plan (also prepared by Clarion).  The process was a joint planning initiative of the City of Manhattan, Riley County, and Pottawatomie County, Kansas. The process also included an update to the Manhattan Area Transportation Strategy (MATS), an effort conducted by HDR.  Key issues included the identification of new opportunities for growth as part of an expanded planning area in Pottawatomie County; infill and redevelopment in the core area of Manhattan (which includes Downtown, Aggieville, and areas adjacent to the Kansas State

University campus); expanded housing options to serve an aging population and young professionals; employment opportunities and potential spin off from the NBAF facility; and ongoing uncertainty regarding troop levels at Fort Riley.  The process included an extensive community engagement effort and online outreach campaign developed in collaboration with Urban Interactive Studio.  Both plans were unanimously adopted by the Manhattan Urban Area Planning Board, Riley County Planning Commission, Pottawattomie County Planning Commission, the Manhattan City Commission, and both County Commissions.