ABSTRACT
The object of the urban design process, therefore, is to help shape the development of public urban space within a set of guidelines and codes. The main challenge for downtown Delano as for other cities of similar scale in the Central Valley is that it cannot attract enough visitors to maintain a vibrant, active atmosphere. Since urban design processes shape public space, it is critical that those who will be affected by them are involved in decision making. Community participation in urban design, therefore, is particularly important for the definition of the desired atmosphere. The level of detail targeted in an urban design process may also influence the project area identification. Starting strategy identification with a prioritization of project goals helps community members not only revisit previously identified goals but also mentally prepare for strategy identification. Communication in community design processes has been greatly enhanced by the expanding availability and richness of digital applications.
