In 1985, the St. Michaels Planning
Commission contracted Peter
Johnston & Associates (formerly Redman/Johnston Associates, Ltd.), to study the
feasibility of expanding the existing central commercial district. The project scope
included preparation of a Land Use plan for the redevelopment and/or expansion of the
North Commercial District or downtown in order to establish depth and clearer definition
of the downtown.
In September, 2001, the Town
Commissioners requested that PJA prepare an update of the Downtown Plan to assess changes
in conditions since 1985 that might warrant changes to 1985 plan recommendations and to
determine what actions might be taken to enhance the qualities, character, and functions
within the downtown area.
A historic community with a strong
maritime tradition, St. Michaels attracts tens of thousands of tourists and boaters every
year. The 2001 Plan update was designed to help the Planning Commission assess potential
issues arising expanding the downtown business district. Before considering the
feasibility of expanding the downtown, with the objective of creating opportunities to
influence the type of commercial development through a redevelopment program,
consideration was given to the factors that influence the current development patterns in
and around the town and factors that will influence future development. These factors
include local market support for year round commercial and service facilities, competition
with local market segments, the location of major activity generators within the downtown,
and physical factors.
Working closely with town’s
commissioners, residents and business community, PJA was able to assist St. Michaels in
developing a Downtown Plan Update that, when successfully implemented, will play a key
role in shaping the future of St. Michaels as a unique place to live, visit, work, and do
business.
