City of Westfield selects firm for Comprehensive Plan update

Contact: Kayla Arnold, Director of Communications 

Email: karnold@westfield.in.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

City of Westfield selects firm for Comprehensive Plan update

Westfield, IN (August 28, 2024) The City of Westfield is pleased to announce the approval of Rundell Ernstberger Associates (REA), a prominent consulting firm, to lead the development of a new Comprehensive Plan, Economic Impact Study, and Infrastructure Plan for the city. This significant step is designed to enhance strategic planning and future growth in alignment with Westfield’s vision for a vibrant, sustainable, and thriving community.

After a rigorous selection process, the Westfield Board of Public Works signed the contract on Wednesday, August 28. This decision follows an extensive evaluation of proposals from city leaders and interviews with potential candidates. REA’s team includes several national and local firms specializing in various areas, including:

  • Orion Planning and Design from Missoula, Montana, specializing in land use scenario planning
  • Urban 3 from Asheville, North Carolina, specializing in economic development and fiscal impact
  • Lochmueller Group from Indianapolis, specializing in civil and transportation engineering
  • Shannon Z. Creative from Indianapolis, leading the project branding

Mayor Scott Willis stated, “We are excited to work with REA and their team to update and refresh our comprehensive plan. This update is crucial for guiding Westfield’s growth, addressing emerging challenges, and capturing new opportunities. We believe that REA's extensive experience and innovative approach will help us achieve our long-term goals and improve the quality of life for all our residents.”

The comprehensive plan update will focus on several key areas, including:

  • Land Use and Zoning: Reviewing and updating zoning codes and land use policies to support balanced development.
  • Transportation and Infrastructure: Enhancing transportation networks and infrastructure to accommodate future growth and improve connectivity.
  • Economic Development: Identifying strategies to stimulate economic growth, support local businesses, and attract new investments.
  • Sustainability and Environment: Integrating sustainable practices and environmental considerations into planning to ensure long-term resilience.
  • Community Engagement: Encouraging active community participation to reflect the needs and desires of Westfield residents.

Cynthia Bowen, FAICP from REA added, “We are honored to be selected for this important project. Our team is committed to collaborating closely with the City of Westfield, local stakeholders, and the community to create a comprehensive plan that is both visionary and actionable. Our goal is to help Westfield achieve its aspirations while addressing current and future challenges.”

The update process will involve in-person public meetings and workshops, and online activities through a 24-7 portal to gather input from residents, business owners, and other stakeholders. This collaborative approach ensures that the final plan reflects the community’s values and aspirations. A more detailed schedule and information will be released as it becomes available.

The City of Westfield anticipates that the comprehensive plan update will begin in September 2024 and be completed by spring of 2026 with periodic updates and opportunities for public involvement throughout the process.

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About the City of Westfield: Westfield is the fastest-growing city in Indiana and the sixth-fastest-growing city in the country. Westfield is home to more than 50,000 residents in Hamilton County, situated north of Indianapolis. The city is known for its 400-acre Grand Park Sports Campus, connectivity to US-31 and State Road 32, and nationally recognized public schools.