Creating a Sustainable City Center

Abstract

Mercy Davison - Town Planner in Normal, IL.

In 2010, the Town of Normal was in the middle of a robust revitalization of its central business district, called Uptown. As part of this effort, Normal has committed to sustainable practices and policies that together would help create a truly sustainable urban core. Normal's Uptown district recently achieved a LEED-ND silver certification, making it one of the first business districts in the nation to be certified under the LEED neighborhood design category. Among the key areas of focus include the built environment, public infrastructure, municipal services, transportation and renewable energy. This presentation aimed to provide information on how municipalities can take a lead role in making their city centers a more sustainable and vibrant destination.