Following Up: 2023 Urban Centers Forum
Posted December 8, 2023
With history surrounding us here in Chester County, CCPC's 2023 Urban Centers Forum focused on the benefits of preserving the county's historic resources to help keep our urban centers thriving into the future. This year's forum was held on November 2 at the Downingtown STEM Academy and via Zoom.
Over 65 individuals attended the forum (either in person or virtually), which featured opening remarks from the Chester County Commissioners, CCPC's Executive Director, Brian O'Leary, Department of Community Development Director, Dolores Colligan, and a welcome to Downingtown Borough by Mayor Phil Dague.
Topics from the forum covered CCPC's Adaptive Reuse Planning Guide presented by CCPC planners Mark Gallant and Joe Shanley; Adaptive Reuse of Historic Structures featuring the Garage Youth Center in Avondale presented by Aaron Smith; and Historic Resource Protection Ordinances and other relevant resources such as the National Register of Historic Places and the Certified Local Government Program presented by Megan McNish from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. An open discussion followed the presentations, where attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and engage with others.
Kevin Myers, CCPC's Urban Planner who oversees this annual event, would like to thank staff, the STEM Academy, speakers, and attendees for another great educational event. Kevin welcomes ideas for future forums to assist with tackling the most current and relevant issues facing Chester County's urban centers.
The Urban Centers Forum is held each fall by the Chester County Planning Commission. Stay tuned for details on next year's forum, and learn more about the county's Urban Centers.