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Yes! We were committed to an open and inclusive process. Anybody that lives in Portsmouth was able to participate and contribute their ideas and insight.
There was also a citizen outreach team who worked to ensure that everyone in the city of Portsmouth knew it is a choice to get involved and have their voice heard. Robust participation ensured the authentic voice of the community was represented in the Plan.
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A Comprehensive Plan is a blueprint for the future based on the values and aspirations of our community. It addresses topics such as:
It gives a universal view of the whole city, is a tool to prepare for change, and acts as both a business plan and guidebook for decision-makers.
The state of Virginia requires that all cities and counties have a Comprehensive Plan. But more importantly, having a plan ensures that the City staff, elected officials, and citizens have a shared vision and are working toward the same goals. The last plan was completed over 10 years ago, so it's time to see what has been working and what needs to be changed.
As a citizen, business owner, or property owner in Portsmouth, you have made an important choice to invest in this community. If you like the community just the way it is, you should care because change is always happening. If you want aspects of the community improved, you should also care enough to help identify what needs to be addressed.
This is your best chance to have a direct say in what Portsmouth should look like in the future!
The planning process was led by you, the citizen. This Plan is a reflection of what the community wants, not what City employees or consultants want. City staff worked closely with a planning consulting team to organize and run the public process, conduct technical research, and draft the recommendations for the Plan update based on what we heard you say.