D O W N T O W N T U C S O N P A R T N E R S H I P

STRATEGICPLANFIVE - YEAR

V I S I O NDowntown Tucson is a Downtown for everyone – an eclectic, beautiful, fun, accessible, pedestrian and bike-friendly district that embraces diversity. It is the Southwest’s premier urban hub for living, dining, retail, business, art, entertainment, and both historic and contemporary architecture.

M I S S I O NTo be the catalyst for making Downtown Tucson the place people want to live, work and play; where new ideas happen; and that is the economic development and cultural epicenter of the region.

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Maintenance and Cleaning

Security

Marketing and Promotions

Advocacy and Relationship Building

Economic Development

CORESERVICES

E C L E C T I C

A U T H E N T I C

F U N

F R I E N D LY

D Y N A M I C

H I S T O R I C

As the primary advocate for Downtown Tucson, our top priority is to provide Core Services through the Enhanced

Services Agreement (ESA) with the City of Tucson. Those services include:

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GOALSTHE NEXT FIVE YEARS

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2017 to 2021

G O A L 2

Beautification and GreenscapeEnhance Downtown’s overall physical appearance through buildings, parks, streetscape, sidewalks, landscaping, parking lots, alleys and roadways. Create an environment that is welcoming, safe and attractive; where people want to be.

G O A L 1

Clean and SafeIncrease sanitation, maintenance and safety standards Downtown.

G O A L 3

Downtown AccessiblityMake it easier to get into and around Downtown.

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G O A L 5

Marketing and PromotionsMarket existing businesses, events, parks, available spaces, and business opportunities. Promote an enhanced, vibrant image of Downtown.

G O A L 4

Business Recruitment and RetentionRecruit key businesses and venues that respond to the Downtown market needs including those of residents, employees, businesses and tourists. Provide support services and education to help existing businesses improve and thrive.

G O A L 6

Resource Development, Finance and PlanningStrengthen the organization’s financing, staff and board structure, and organizational development and growth.

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G O A L 8

Relationship BuildingStrengthen our relationship with merchants, property owners, developers, neighborhood groups, historic preservationists, City, County, Rio Nuevo, U of A, stakeholders and partners.

G O A L 7

Residential and Mixed-Use DevelopmentImplement and support aggressive housing and mixed-use development effort.

G O A L 9

Enhanced Services Agreement and Fee for Service ContractsExceed expectations and contract requirements. Provide the highest level of professionalism and customer service to the city of Tucson.

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TACTICAL WORK

PLAN

2017 to 2021

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ACTIVITY

Enhance trash and graffiti removal services while initiating specific strategies that address chronic problems.

Create business resource guide with contact information for specific maintenance, security and sanitation concerns. Act as an information source and advocate for enhanced public and private infrastructure maintenance and sanitation. (e.g. broken sidewalks, curbs, street lights, trees, graffiti removal, human fecal matter) Create comprehensive distribution plan for same.

Maintain and enhance overall cleanliness and upkeep of sidewalks, planters, street furnishings, per ESA section 13A.

Coordinate with the City and County emergency preparedness safety groups to advise on the Downtown disaster evacuation plan.

Work with Police and Parks and Recreation to enforce ordinances Downtown relating to loitering, panhandling and 3 cubic ft. of belongings in public spaces Downtown.

Enforce security in parks when permits are in use.

Increase security personnel in evenings, weekends, on holidays and during events.

Create a sub-committee of the Merchants Council to focus on security related issues.

G O A L 1

Clean and SafeIncrease sanitation, maintenance and safety standards Downtown.

ACTIVITY

Create Homeless Resource Guide for Downtown businesses, residents and visitors explaining the complexity of the issue, the laws, how to handle common issues, and who to call for homeless advocate support and enforcement.

Create Downtown Homeless Outreach Program. Partner with homeless shelters to provide direct support services (Social Worker) to homeless 8 hrs/wk (2 days / per week) in partnership with our security team. Social Worker will also have office space available to them in the DTP office.

Create a sub-committee of the Merchants Council to focus on common issues pertaining to bars, nightclubs, restaurants and entertainment venues.

G O A L 1 ( c o n t )

Clean and Safe

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ACTIVITY

Streetscape Short Term: Work with partners to address the variety of styles/colors of street furnishings and agree to a short-term design standard for streetscape amenities to be implemented immediately.

Streetscape Long Term: Work with partners to develop unified streetscape design standards. Identify and secure funding to create and implement design plans for Streetscape Enhancements for the core of Downtown. Work with City of Tucson and other partners throughout the process.

Submit management proposal to City for Jacome Plaza with intention to activate the space through a series of events and physical improvements. Management would include initial physical improvements (e.g. tables, chairs, sod, shade sails, lighting, games and gaming area, free wifi, etc.), marketing the space to outside groups for programming, daily management, maintenance and security.

Act as liaison between City and Downtown businesses and property owners to facilitate the completion of Scott Avenue streetscape project.

Partner to encourage green initiatives. (e.g. recycling, litter, awareness, etc.)

Identify wireless hot spots throughout Downtown core and promote same.

Create awning and signage programs utilizing Façade Improvement program and funding.

G O A L 2

Beautification and GreenscapeEnhance Downtown’s overall physical appearance through buildings, parks, streetscape, sidewalks, landscaping, parking lots, alleys and

roadways. Create an environment that is welcoming, safe and attractive; where people want to be.

ACTIVITY

Submit proposal to City for the creation of a Downtown Dog Park at Veinte de Augosto Park. Promote weekly fundraisers for park renovations/fountain restoration. Pair canine non-profits with breweries for Friday night - Pups and Pints.

Work with partners to activate Armory Park.

Create merchant storefront planter program.

Engage U of A Landscape Architecture students to create comprehensive landscaping plan for all City planters as part of their curriculum/class project. This would include an inventory of planters by type, location, plant materials and maintenance plan.

Perform alley audits and prioritize alleys for maintenance, security, and creative adaptations. Partner with College of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture. Consult with alley expert, Daniel Toole – Author of Tight Urbanism and Tucson resident.

Identify high traffic dog walking zones and install doggie doo-doo stations.

Seek funding/grants for tree plantings Downtown.

Plan holiday and seasonal décor for light poles, planters and parks. Improve and expand decorations each year. Install Christmas decorations earlier.

G O A L 2 ( c o n t )

Beautification and Greenscape

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ACTIVITY

Work with partners to complete new wayfinding signage program to include digital kiosks and projecting signage for parking structures.

Work with partners to increase lighting Downtown while being sensitive to the Dark Sky Initiative.

Develop a Downtown Ambassador Volunteer program and training utilizing U of A interns, Downtown residents and DTP Clean and Safe team.

Work with partners to create additional connective bike routes throughout Downtown.

Work with partners to ensure that there is adequate parking Downtown.

Work with County to extend hours in County parking lots.

Work with partners to support Downtown Links project and further review traffic patterns and accessibility issues. (One-way Streets vs. Two-way Streets)

Work with partners to expand parking options for Downtown visitors, employees and residents.

Encourage pedicabs and rickshaws and promote same.

G O A L 3

Downtown AccessibilityMake it easier to get into and around Downtown.

ACTIVITY

Work with partners to expand streetcar and bus routes.

Communicate road and parking lot closures to affected property and business owners.

Promote upcoming bike share program, the street car and other alternative transportation modes.

Advocate for sidewalks, bike lanes, and other pedestrian improvement.

G O A L 3 ( c o n t )

Downtown Accessibility

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ACTIVITY

Identify Downtown market needs and implement recruitment efforts through the retail recruitment program.

Host (or promote existing) business development seminars for merchants focused on service, merchandising, marketing and social media.

Encourage merchant participation and leadership in focused workgroups to address critical issues facing Downtown. (e.g. security, events, etc.)

Work with Merchants Council to activate and organize the Council for greater participation and effectiveness.

Work with Merchants Council to create Merchant Mixers at different venues each month.

Conduct weekly visits to Downtown businesses. Listen to concerns and evaluate business health. Provide support services and advice.

Organize restaurants and bars into a working group for promotions and events.

Create Tech-Startup recruitment packets and aggressively recruit businesses from larger metro areas.

Host weekly staff meetings and functions at Downtown businesses to promote visibility, accessibility and to learn about the businesses.

G O A L 4

Business Recruitment and Retention

Recruit key businesses and venues that respond to the Downtown market needs including those of residents, employees, businesses and tourists. Provide support services and education to help existing businesses improve and thrive.

G O A L 5

Marketing and PromotionsMarket existing businesses, events, parks, available spaces, and business

opportunities. Promote an enhanced vibrant image of Downtown.

ACTIVITY

Create comprehensive Downtown Property Inventory to include parcel number, square feet, vacancies, business type and description, and bid assessment. Continuously update.

Create available property listing with photos updated in real time on website.

Continue to provide economic development reports and updates regarding new businesses, developments and housing projects.

Combine Downtown Dining and Shopping Guide together for a more comprehensive Downtown guide which includes services, education, hotels and event and transportation info. Create and implement comprehensive distribution plan for same.

Continue to work with partners to ensure that visitors have access to information concerning Downtown entertainment, events, restaurants, businesses, etc. Continue production of Uniquely Tucson with partners.

Host special tours for hotel concierges and Uber to provide relevant and timely information on upcoming attractions, special events, restaurants, entertainment venues, businesses and historic neighborhood tours.

Create and distribute Downtown map (tear sheet) to area hotels and visitor centers.

Create new brand, logo and messaging for Downtown.

Create new web site for Downtown.

Create Press schedule. Meet weekly to adjust and plan.

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ACTIVITY

Host Neighborhood Bus Tours with partnering neighborhood groups (e.g. El Presidio, Downtown, Mercado) Pick up – Foothills, Green Valley, Saddlebrook.

Evaluate current events coordinated by DTP to determine effectiveness and appropriateness for continued involvement. (e.g. Parade of Lights)

Work cooperatively with partners to market street car and cross-promote adjacent business districts. (e.g. bar crawl in partnership with business districts along streetcar)

Produce monthly e-newsletter highlighting new businesses, interesting news and events. Live links to CEO blog, Economic Development blog, andWeekend Update.

Work with the Arts Foundation for Tucson, AZ to coordinate arts projects Downtown. (e.g. new banners, painting of electrical boxes, holiday window contest, mural program, public sculpture, scarecrow row etc.)

Create a self-populating Downtown residential database to be used for targeted communications, events and surveys to Downtown residents. Maintain for accuracy and growth.

Encourage more events and programs to be held Downtown. Provide “how to” manual for event coordinators. (e.g. permitting, street closures,increased security, garbage, etc.)

Work with Downtown restaurants/bars to create new events/promotions. (e.g. Restaurant Week, Get Happy Downtown, Downtown Delivers Promo, Sunday Funday, Doggie Cafes)

Incorporate more video across all marketing platforms. (e.g. highlight business openings and larger events w/ video on website, create YouTube channel for Downtown, etc.)

G O A L 5 ( c o n t )

Marketing and Promotions

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ACTIVITY

Complete strategic plan and present to stakeholders and partners.

Assess board size and composition.

Update ESA with City to reflect strategic plan.

Renew existing BID.

Explore BID expansion.

Provide training opportunities and encourage staff to expand industry knowledge base through conferences, training and resource materials.

Create yearly action plans with measurable objectives, timelines and funding sources. Revisit Strategic Plan in FY 2019-2020 for assessment and update.

Solidify home base for DTP offices (Admininstration, Maintenance and Security, Storage). Confirm current arrangements and, if need be, explore other options. (e.g. Restored Courthouse with Visit Tucson, Warehouse, City Garage, etc.)

Create “Urban Lab.” Formalize structure and expand current intern program with detailed intern recruitment plan, project assignment, job descriptions, management and reviews for interns. Five interns on staff year-round. Pipeline program - from intern to employed.

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G O A L 6

Resource Development, Financing and Planning

Strengthen the organization’s financing, staff and board structure and organizational development and growth.

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G O A L 6 ( c o n t )

Resource Development, Financing and Planning

ACTIVITY

Provide annual performance reviews and incentive program to include benchmarks and deliverables for staff.

Work with partners to identify and secure funding for comprehensive streetscape improvement project and wayfinding program.

Confirm financial commitment of City and County to meet BID assessment.

Review current BID assessments utilizing Downtown Property Inventory.

Seek additional funding through local and federal grant opportunities.

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ACTIVITY

Assist and facilitate discussions with Downtown developers. Aid, support, streamline approvals and remove obstacles.

Host Downtown residential focus group and/or survey.

Promote and educate public on development projects through social media, website, and economic development blog.

Partner with Emerging 2030 District and promote sustainable energy usage Downtown.

Partner with historic preservation groups and adjacent neighborhoods to identify historically and/or culturally significant sites. Seek out developers and agencies to actively market sites for preservation and/or restoration.

Work with partners to encourage bank financing for “owned” housing, not just rentals.

G O A L 7

Residential and Mixed-Use Development

Encourage a balance of market rate, affordable, mixed-use developments and historic preservation/restorations efforts.

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ACTIVITY

Merchants – Make weekly visits to businesses and listen to and incorporate recommendations when possible. Be mindful to include merchants in meetings, discussions, and programs that affect them. Improve overall communications.

Neighborhoods – Attend monthly meetings. Listen and offer suggestions for compromise. Improve overall communications.

City and Rio Nuevo – Acknowledge their contribution and partnership in media and with others. Remember to vocally express appreciation.

Host merchant focus group and/or surveys.

Host Downtown employee focus group and/or surveys.

Host Neighborhood focus group and/or surveys.

Share information (back and forth) and look for opportunities to partner with non-profits, community organizations, governmental offices and agencies, events, etc.

G O A L 8

Relationship BuildingStrengthen our relationship with merchants, property owners, developers,

neighborhood groups, historic preservationists, City, County, Rio Nuevo, U of A, stakeholders and partners.

ACTIVITY

Present new Enhanced Services Agreement to the City with expanded scope of services per the strategic plan.

Actively seek additional contracts.

Review current contracts and renegotiate terms as necessary to ensure financial feasibility and effectiveness.

Reach out to neighboring districts, parks and organizations to provide new cleaning and security contracts.

Reach out to Downtown events to provide new cleaning and security contracts.

G O A L 9

Enhanced Services Agreement and Fee for Service Contracts

Exceed expectations and contract requirements. Provide the highest level of professionalism and customer service to the City of Tucson.

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For more information about partners, budget, timelines, or any other aspect of this Strategic Plan, please contact the

Downtown Tucson Partnership at: info@downtowntucson.org

Check out our website for a detailed listing of businesses, parking info or dining options at

www.downtowntucson.org

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