Carefree Truth

Issue #308, February 24, 2014

 

 

The Urban Land Institute (ULI) is a non-profit research and educational organization supported by its members.  It provides "leadership in the responsible use of land and in creating and sustaining thriving communities worldwide".  A day long seminar that I attended was held on January 16th in the Carefree Council Chambers by their Technical Assistance Panel (AzTAP), during which the Panel members discussed suggestions for vitalizing downtown Carefree.  At the February Council meeting Panel Moderator Dave Roderique and Panelist Amy Malloy presented an overview of that meeting.  Mr. Rodrique is the CEO of the Downtown Phoenix Partnership.  Ms. Malloy is the development manager at Macerich, formerly Westcor, a major developer of commercial properties. 

 

First and foremost, Carefree needs to encourage a "village" feel.  The existing small, owner-operated shops and restaurants are a good fit for Carefree, and help to create this sense of village.  They did not believe that national chain type stores would work as well here. Formation of a Carefree Business Association, steered by successful merchants who understood what their clientele sought, was strongly recommended.

 

Carefree should promote a shared vision for the downtown.  They said the best way to achieve this is through private/public partnerships with the creation of a downtown "improvement district" in which commercial property owners participate financially to incorporate features that make the Town Center more appealing and people friendly, as more people and activities translate to more potential business for the merchants.  Because Carefree's interior layout is extremely pedestrian friendly, they also encouraged maximum mixed use residential/commercial projects, locating residents directly in the Town Center.  

 

They feel that Carefree is in an enviable position.  It is located in a financially upscale area, and has many drawing points, the most significant of which is the Carefree Desert Botanical Garden, a feature unique in the Desert Foothills, which should be marketed extensively. However, one of the most serious problems is the lack of visibility for the downtown area, since it is interior, rather than being located primarily along the major roads.  They suggested more eye arresting signs, and something to give a sense of entry, so drivers would be aware that there is a commercial district.  Currently many drive past, unaware of what Carefree has to offer.  

 

Mr. Roderique and Ms. Malloy were impressed with the passion displayed by the Council and staff but stressed that this is not a short term endeavor, and that the passion for success must be sustained over the long term.  The Mayor and Council thanked the ULI and commended them for an outstanding program.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pEl9f06NWo&list=UUiL9eWRuc6rwuZa0Lhi9AbQ 

 

Lyn Hitchon

 

Prepared by Carefree Truth

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