28 CITY OF FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE opportunities for downtown—if there is a conscious strategy in place. A strategic plan is needed for downtown, the commercial and office heart of the City. It should address: Present and future land uses Under-utilized parcels and opportunities for redevelopment Market opportunities for specialty retailing, restaurants Upper story uses Public facilities and services Parking (long and short-term) and circulation Pedestrian amenities Transition to adjacent residential neighborhoods Gateways and entrance corridors Sources and uses of funds for capital improvements, management services Implementation strategies Develop a Neighborhood Conservation Program Within the City limits there are long-standing pre-World War II neighborhoods that represent important aspects of Franklin’s history, but may lack the degree of architectural integrity required to become National Register Historic Districts. These neighborhoods, like Hard Bargain, are important heritage resources and could benefit from targeted assistance in the form of a neighborhood conservation program that would engage residents of older neighborhoods in community-based planning. Such a program should focus on identifying funding sources and providing technical assistance to help stabilize neighborhoods and rehabilitate heritage resources in a manner that retains affordability and ensures social cohesion. In addition, the program should seek to preserve historic fabric by fostering rehabilitation and new construction that is compatible with the neighborhood’s character. The program should also provide a framework for the City to provide targeted and coordinated investment in public infrastructure. Thus, the focus would be on retaining community character rather than on meeting more stringent historic preservation guidelines. The program could be a partnership between City agencies, preservationists, local non-profit service providers and community leaders. It is recommended that the Natchez Street and Hard Bargain neighborhoods be considered as early opportunities for the
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