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File #: 25-0256    Version: 1 Name: Joint Meeting on Urban Planning & Placemaking
Type: Briefing Status: Filed
File created: 9/11/2025 In control: City Council Special Session
On agenda: 9/24/2025 Final action: 9/24/2025
Title: Joint Work Session on Urban Planning & Placemaking
Indexes: , , , , , , Community Recreational Enhancements, Economic Development Authority, Economic Vitality, Education, Love Your City, Placemaking, Recreation
Attachments: 1. Presentation, 2. Retreat Agenda, 3. Bio - Mitchell Silver, 4. Mitchell J. Silver Webpage, 5. Article from The Guardian, 6. Article from Time, 7. Article from Medium
Title
Joint Work Session on Urban Planning & Placemaking

Purpose
PURPOSE/BACKGROUND:
The City Council, Economic Development Authority, Hampton Housing & Redevelopment Authority, Planning Commission, and Hampton City Schools School Board will engage in a facilitated discussion on Hampton’s long-term vision for urban planning and placemaking. This joint session, led by internationally recognized planner Mitchell J. Silver, will provide an opportunity to align strategies across governing bodies, strengthen collaboration, and identify shared priorities for shaping Hampton’s future built environment.

Discussion:

Hampton has a proud history of strategic planning, neighborhood investment, and community engagement. As the City undertakes major initiatives such as the redevelopment of key corridors and the pursuit of vibrant, accessible, and connected neighborhoods, it is critical to coordinate across policy-making, development, housing, and education partners.

Mr. Silver, former Commissioner of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation and President of the American Planning Association, is known for his ability to integrate urban planning, design, and community development into inspiring and actionable frameworks. His facilitation will support Hampton’s efforts to:

1) Strengthen placemaking strategies that foster civic pride, social connection, and access to public spaces.

2) Explore approaches to mixed-use development and redevelopment of under-utilized or blighted properties.

3) Align planning, housing, economic development, and educational goals to support vibrant neighborhoods and sustainable growth.

4) Connect Hampton’s identity and sense of place with long-term investments in infrastructure, schools, and housing.

Impact:

Expected outcomes of this retreat include:

1) A shared understanding among key decision makers of Hampton’s planning and placemaking opportunities.

2) Identification of cross-cutting themes and collaborative strategies to in...

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