The document discusses areas of continuity and change in small town America. While small towns maintain connections to local history and culture, they face challenges like aging populations, loss of youth, and shifts in their economies. Planning priorities include long-range planning with a vision, regional cooperation, infrastructure maintenance, and preserving community character amidst these changes.

1. Change and Continuity in Small Town America:
Created by: Alec Young, Shan Shan Deng, Isaac Swanson, and Gavin Wobbe
Instructor: William J. Kelley Rural and Small Town Planning – 471/572 Winter Quarter 2016
AREAS OF CONTINUITY:
• Strong connection to local history and culture.
• Relaxed pace of life and down-to-earth culture.
• Family oriented activities.
• Neighborhoods with identity and character.
• Sense of hometown pride.
AREAS OF CHANGE:
Demographics:
• Aging population.
• Out migration of youth.
• Immigration of minorities and retirees.
Economy:
• Isolated resource based towns are in decline.
• Some small towns transition to amenity based
economies.
• Shifts in trade area patterns to regional centers.
Economy:
• Vibrant Downtown.
• Expanded Jobs, Tax Base, and Local Businesses.
Environment:
• Small Town Character - Attractive Appearance.
Society:
• Greater access to medical services.
• Sufficient school facilities and services.
• Affordable housing, livable neighborhoods.
• Civic spirit of cooperation and partnerships.
PLANNING PRIORITIES:
• Long range planning with a strong vision.
• Regional cooperation on economic
development, governmental services.
• Strengthen social capital with increased civic
engagement.
• Active grant programs.
• Maintain and upgrade infrastructure.
• Preserve Community Character.
• Connect local stakeholders and join regional
partners.
• Aging Infrastructure.
• Changes in demographics.
• Reduced living wage jobs.
• Loss of historic structures.
• Declining jobs and tax base.
• Population growth or decline.
• Need for high speed internet.
DESIRED FUTURE:
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I m p l i c a t i o n s f o r P l a n n i n g
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References: Place Matters, Carsey Institute, 2008; Small Town Planning, Daniels, et al, APA, 2007
ISSUES:
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