MassDevelopment/Massachusetts Downtown Initiative at Dept. of Housing and Community Development
Workshop on Downtown Upper Floor Utilization
(Earn 4 to 5 AICP CM credits)
Wed., December 2, 2015: Day-long workshop focusing on second floor uses in commercial districts.
Susan Silberberg, principal of CivicMoxie, LLC, will explore the unique challenges of filling vacant, second floor spaces with active uses that contribute to vibrancy, support the bottom line for property owners, and contribute to long-term sustainability of commercial districts.
1) Atypical uses-complimentary uses, zoning challenges regarding uses, creating a brand, larger needs of community
2) Physical space characteristics-character of space, floor plates, building typology, relationship to public realm and other buildings, needs of typical uses
3) Regulatory constraints-signage, code requirements depending on % of value cost of improvements - challenges with upgrading, local licenses, parking regulations, zoning, building codes
4) Actors - property owners, recruiting uses (how to lure them and make the argument), the public, public safety officials
The workshop will also look at Historic and New Market Tax credit opportunities. Format: short presentations and workshop breakouts that explore case studies. Breakouts will explore real issues and share challenges and possible solutions.
When: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Time: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM (Lunch will be provided)
Where: Lawrence, MA
Register: HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/downtown-upper-floor-utilization-registration-19482579921
This workshop is free. Lunch will be served. Please register by November 27, 2015.
