Benton Park Community Improvement District (CID) Five-Year Plan

Year 1: Establishment and Initial Improvements

1.  Formation and Outreach

   - Form the CID board with representatives from the community, businesses, and local stakeholders.

   - Conduct outreach meetings to inform residents and businesses about the CID’s purpose and benefits.

   - Create a comprehensive communication plan, including a website and social media presence.

2.   Public Safety Enhancements

   - Hire additional security personnel or collaborate with local law enforcement for increased patrols.

   - Install surveillance cameras at key locations to deter crime (Flock Safety, or other LPR’s).

   - Implement a neighborhood watch program to involve community members in safety efforts.

3.   Cleanliness and Beautification

  - Initiate regular street cleaning and litter removal services.  Hiring an outside company for bulk items removal, and more.

  - Install and maintain additional trash receptacles and recycling bins.

  - Start a beautification program with flower beds, tree planting, and seasonal decorations.

4.   Infrastructure Improvements

  - Conduct a thorough assessment of existing infrastructure and identify areas needing repair or enhancement.  

  - Begin with quick fixes like repairing sidewalks, potholes, and streetlights.

Year 2: Economic Development and Community Engagement

1.   Business Support and Attraction

   - Develop a business attraction strategy to fill vacant storefronts and promote economic growth.

   - Offer grants or incentives for façade improvements and business renovations.

   - Organize networking events and workshops for local businesses.

2.  Marketing and Promotion

   - Launch a marketing campaign to promote Benton Park as a vibrant and attractive neighborhood.

   - Create branding materials, including banners, brochures, and a dedicated website section highlighting local businesses and events.

3.   Community Events and Activities   - Organize regular community events such as farmers' markets, street fairs, and cultural festivals.

   - Support local artists with public art projects, murals, and performances.

   - Establish a neighborhood newsletter to keep residents informed and engaged.

Year 3: Enhanced Services and Infrastructure Projects

1.   Enhanced Public Services

   - Expand cleaning services to include graffiti removal and alley maintenance.

  - Implement a recycling and composting program to promote sustainability.

2.  Major Infrastructure Projects

   - Begin planning and fundraising for larger infrastructure projects such as park renovations, bike lanes, and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes.

   - Collaborate with the city to improve public transportation options and accessibility.

3.   Safety and Security Enhancements

   - Expand the neighborhood watch program and increase community participation.

   - Install additional lighting in poorly lit areas to improve safety.

Year 4: Community Health and Sustainability Initiatives

1.   Health and Wellness Programs

   - Partner with local health organizations to provide regular health fairs, screenings, and wellness programs.

   - Create community gardens to promote healthy eating and provide fresh produce to residents.

2.   Sustainability Efforts

   - Implement energy-efficient practices in public spaces and encourage businesses to adopt green practices.

   - Organize workshops on sustainability topics such as recycling, composting, and energy conservation.

3.   Ongoing Community Engagement

   - Continue to organize and support community events that foster neighborhood pride and cohesion.

   - Regularly update the community on CID activities, progress, and future plans.

Year 5: Evaluation and Long-Term Planning

1.   Evaluation and Feedback

- Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the CID’s initiatives and their impact on the community.

   - Gather feedback from residents, businesses, and stakeholders to identify areas for improvement.

2.   Long-Term Strategic Planning

   - Develop a long-term strategic plan based on the evaluation results, focusing on sustained growth and improvement.

   - Explore opportunities for expanding the CID’s services and initiatives to further enhance the neighborhood.

3.  Celebration and Recognition

   - Celebrate the CID’s achievements with a community event acknowledging the efforts and contributions of residents, businesses, and stakeholders.

   - Recognize outstanding contributions and successes within the community.

Conclusion

A CID in Benton Park can significantly enhance the neighborhood's quality of life by improving safety, cleanliness, infrastructure, and economic vitality. By presenting this five-year plan, you can demonstrate a clear vision and actionable steps to garner support from the community.