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CHAPTER 7 <br /> Implementing the parking meter program, establishing a transportation <br /> management association (TMA), and working with transit authorities to gradually <br /> upgrade transit service can also start soon after the implementation of the plan. <br /> The parking fees will give the City a modest source of funds to leverage and use <br /> for downtown improvements, and the TMA will serve as a tool with which to <br /> comprehensively address a number of transportation objectives. <br /> Step 2. Plant a Seed <br /> Initiate a High-Visibility, Transformational Project <br /> (Begin planning within one year; complete within 3-4 years) <br /> The purpose of this action is to show significant City commitment to downtown <br /> with a project that will foster substantial development and/or add a new <br /> dimension to downtown activities. Two recommended projects meet these <br /> criteria: a major streetscape improvement of Rucker Avenue (Action S-2) and <br /> the development of a multipurpose focal park or plaza (Action 0-3). Since the <br /> Rucker Avenue improvements are directed toward fostering a new in-city <br /> residential neighborhood, this project might be timed to coincide with substantial <br /> mixed-use residential development along that street. The City might begin <br /> planning and design of the street and commit construction funds when the private <br /> investment occurs. Creating a unifying central park or plaza is directed at adding <br /> a whole new set of activities, recreational attractions, and business opportunities <br /> in downtown. The construction of the new park should be complemented by joint <br /> City and private efforts to program events for optimizing its use and to address <br /> security and maintenance needs, The success of downtown parks is as <br /> dependent on good management as it is on good design. <br /> Step 3. Strengthen Teamwork <br /> Initiate or Enhance Cooperative Programs to Address Ongoing Needs <br /> (Ongoing) <br /> cn Building a successful downtown is more than funding signature projects and <br /> erA <br /> directing new development. Continuous public/private efforts to keep downtown, <br /> 100 MAKERS architecture and urban design <br /> 0509_rpt_draft.doc•6/29/06 <br />