Montgomery city officials and Kending Keast Collaborative are finalizing updates to downtown ordinances that emphasize historic-inspired design, infrastructure improvements, and enhanced walkability. Proposed changes include new streetscapes, wayfinding signs, and parking regulations to reshape the city's core.
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Officials from the city of Montgomery, working together with the planning firm Kending Keast Collaborative (KKC), are in the process of finalizing interim ordinances aimed at transforming downtown through a harmonious integration of urban design and historic character.
During a symposium held on January 29, officials deliberated on updates emphasizing infrastructure, parking, and aesthetic considerations. A primary objective is maintaining the city's historical character while improving its functionality.
During a community meeting held on January 30, Mayor Sara Countryman provided insights regarding the forthcoming transformation of downtown, highlighting that the revitalization will integrate contemporary infrastructure while preserving a sense of historical character. Proposed enhancements encompass the installation of new wayfinding signage to assist visitors, as well as the revitalization of the streetscape along McCowan Street. The upgrades will include shaded seating areas, traffic channels with a brick pattern reminiscent of the Texas flag, and expanded pedestrian-friendly zones.
According to the proposed ordinances, newly constructed buildings in the downtown area must conform to historic design principles, thereby prohibiting the use of materials such as wood and masonry and architectural styles characteristic of franchise establishments.
The modifications also pertain to parking regulations along Highway 105 and Eva Street, stipulating a requirement of one parking space for every 1,000 square feet of gross floor area and one space for every 800 square feet in designated zones. Furthermore, introducing new amenity spaces will facilitate pedestrian-friendly environments that extend beyond conventional infrastructure.
If sanctioned, these enhancements have the potential to transform downtown Montgomery, harmonizing historical aesthetics with contemporary accessibility and functionality.
As per Mayor Countryman, the City Council is anticipated to approve the proposed provisional ordinances during its meeting on February 25.
