Funded through CMAP’s Local Technical Assistance (LTA) program, the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Zion focused on positioning Zion for long-term economic development and future growth by embracing its diverse culture, increasing access to expanded healthcare, and developing awareness of Zion’s unique location and natural resources along Lake Michigan. Led by Teska Associates, Inc., the project team was comprised of many members, including Real Estate Planning Group for market analysis and economic research into development opportunities, IFF for their knowledge of housing and community development services and CH2MHill for guidance on reuse of the decommissioned Zion Nuclear Power Plant site. Additionally, because the power plant is surrounded by a one of a kind ecosystem, the Teska Team also included Conservation Design Forum for their expertise on ecologically sensitive areas, open space and natural resource planning.
Integral to the project was the creation of a project website, active public engagement in the community at the annual Nostalgia Days event, and the employment of two Zions residents to help promote the plan within the community. Both Community Viz community planning software and advanced GIS techniques were used to conduct detailed analysis of population changes, walkability issues, access to transit and quality of life improvements in the community. The plan also included urban design guidelines, and a strategic action plan to help ensure implementation. The Zion Comprehensive Plan was the recipient of a 2016 APA-IL planning award.
