MDI/PDI was tasked by the City of Florence, Kentucky to assist it in preserving the dominance of its traditional first tier suburban commercial core. Multiplying pressures from new competition in the form of several nearby lifestyle center sites and additional big box retail was threatening to undercut its potential. MDI/PDI undertook comprehensive research to determine the trade area characteristics of the core then began intense advisory services aimed at reinvigorating the core’s uses, functions and purposes.

These efforts included an economic and permissability charette process designed to catalyze perceptions of the corridor toward maximum vitality and market potential, financial feasibility analysis and market testing for the involved real estate, and developer and retailer recruitment. The aim of these efforts is to:

• Enhance/Maximize the districts’ competitive position in the area’s retail market;
• Protect and enhance the real estate valuations of properties within the district;
• Create a compelling live, work, play environment;
• Preserve and enhance the tax revenues produced by the district businesses; and
• Evaluate proper maximizing densities and uses.

Preliminary results have been good. Major property owners have acceded to the process, governmental authorities are navigating significant infrastructure improvements, and property end users, including national developers, are expressing strong project interest.