Mayor Ted Bettencourt’s office announced a comprehensive update to the city’s master plan on Thursday, Nov. 2. Vision 2035’s goal, according to a press release from Bettencourt’s office, is to create a “Peabody for all” by developing an all-encompassing guide and shared vision for the future of the city.
The Department of Community Development and Planning will lead the the effort, the release added, to meet the community’s needs through responsible and appropriate growth and development.
“Vision 2035 is extremely important as it will provide the outline for the future of this city, creating a community-oriented plan of action and developing a road map for future growth” Community Development and Planning Director Curt Bellavance said in the press release. “It is our main goal to ensure this plan represents the community’s voice, and we welcome all of Peabody to help take part in this update.”
In addition to the Department of Community Development and Planning, the press release added that the city has enlisted global design firm Stantec to help with further development and updating of the plan. Stantec Project Manager Alison LeFlore said she is “very excited to have the opportunity to help the City of Peabody complete this long-overdue master plan that will be based on a strong community-generated vision.”
In order to ensure residential input and representation, the city has put together a Master Plan Steering Committee made up of Peabody residents. Members of the committee represent the city’s different geographic areas and communities. The planning process will also include city-wide engagement activities and events, offering multiple opportunities for the community to provide feedback and input.
“A new master plan is key to maintaining Peabody’s growth and vitality over the long term,” Bettencourt said in the press release. “We seek input from Peabody residents and business owners because their perspective will help create the most inspiring vision for our city’s future.”
City staff and Stantec will hold the first public workshop and visioning session for Vision 2035 on Thursday, Nov. 16, when they will discuss the project and gather input from the community.
