ABSTRACT
Transportation changes are one of the most significant external forces that affect downtowns, and they come in a variety of forms. In the case of transportation changes that would negatively affect the downtown, the plan needs to offer alternatives or mitigating actions. In positive changes, such as commuter rail stop, the plan needs to assess its opportunities and devise a strategy to leverage benefits to the downtown. While positive economic conditions can be a good reason for a downtown to plan its future, a serious and sustained downward trend more typically prompts planning. Most downtown plans include some concepts contemplated by stakeholders for years prior to the plan's preparation. One of the most critical steps in preparing a downtown plan occurs before the formal planning process ever begins. If a core group of downtown supporters are unable to persuade the key decision makers and funding sources to embark upon a plan, all of the other related issues become irrelevant.
