Brookfield

The 124th Street & Lisbon Road Neighborhood Plan seeks to create a revitalized commercial neighborhood out of an aging industrial district. This area was originally planned to be a residential neighborhood when it was platted in the 1950’s, however, mostly small manufacturing, service, and distribution companies moved in. As a result of the underlying platting, most lots are not well suited to modern industrial uses, and the aging buildings are often poorly designed with low ceiling heights and poor truck access. The City’s goal is to encourage redevelopment with modern facilities.

The plan is based on a market analysis that recognizes distinct advantages to the neighborhood, such as proximity to a large labor pool, good highway access, relatively low facility costs, and space suited to small and emerging businesses. Target markets were varied, but included services, general manufacturing, and uses associated with the nearby hospitals and a research park. The area plays a role as an informal business incubator, which could be expanded through economic development programs.

To encourage redevelopment, we recommended a focus on improved public infrastructure and flexible zoning regulations. The plan calls for closure of two neighborhood streets and extension of two new streets in order to create potential for property assembly. The new streets are to be constructed to an urban standard allowing on-street parking to offset a reduction in required on-site parking in the neighborhood.

In addition to reduced parking, the plan recommends zoning changes to allow greater lot coverage and to reduce required setbacks. Design guidelines deal mainly with existing concerns such as the location of loading areas and screening for outdoor storage.