In mid-2004 HKGi completed an update of the City of Moorhead's Comprehensive Plan. Because ease of use and an emphasis on putting the plan into action were important to the City, HKGi's planners worked closely with city staff to produce a plan that clearly articulates the actions necessary to achieve the community's vision for the future. The heart of the Plan, the Planning for the Future section, is built around three essential elements: the Vision; the Land Use Plan; and Focus Areas. The Land Use Plan and Focus Areas are based on the Vision, and the report uses unique graphic elements not only to tie the three elements together but also to connect them directly to the Strategic Initiatives contained in the final section of the Plan. These Strategic Initiatives provide the means of carrying out the community's Vision.

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Issues that the Plan addresses include the need for planning in new growth areas; land absorption rates and how to encourage redevelopment, increase density and prepare for potential annexation in order to ensure that the city can continue healthy growth; the need for a mixed land use pattern that connects downtown with Minnesota State University Moorhead and Concordia College campuses; planning and design considerations for keeping and creating quality neighborhoods, activity centers and business and employment areas; planning to accommodate future parks and open space, streets and infrastructure, and school needs as the city grows; and how to encourage better community design in order to enhance Moorhead's attractiveness to potential businesses and residents.

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