Ahead of the final draft of the Louisville Comprehensive Plan update, the Louisville City Council has provided staff feedback on future land use for key areas in the city.

Planning Manager Jeff Hirt said at the council’s Tuesday meeting that the goal of the session was to get the council’s input on the Future Land Use Plan, as it is one of the most foundational aspects of the city’s Comprehensive Plan.

“It’s a very Louisville-specific balance we are looking for,” Hirt said.

Jessica Garrow, planner with Design Workshop, a firm the city hired to help shape the Comprehensive Plan, said community feedback on future land use for the city highlighted preserving community character, environmental sustainability, transportation, open space, preserving community amenities like the senior center, civic leadership and economic vibrancy.

Alison Cotey, planner with Design Workshop, said the city’s population is aging and decreasing, as families are being priced out of Louisville, which is putting the city’s sense of community at risk. She added that there are not many residents who both live and work in the city.

Cotey and Garrow presented three scenarios the city could pursue in regard to future land use. One scenario would see the city stay as is, another would push toward promoting a variety of housing types throughout the city and another would emphasize seeking ways to increase both jobs and housing in the city.

Cotey said that while residents were in favor of high-density housing, there are concerns over how to balance new growth, while also maintaining the city’s character.

Councilmember Dietrich Hoefner said downtown Louisville is one of the most beloved areas of the city, but the city’s current zoning does not allow creation of similar environments in other parts of Louisville. He said the city should “legalize Main Street,” and allow other commercial districts to have dense retail space, which helps foster a sense of community.

“Why don’t we allow that kind of development that we really like in other commercial districts and allow folks the flexibility to build what makes sense, rather than having overly prescriptive design guidelines?” Hoefner asked.

The council also addressed how to revitalize areas such as the McCaslin Boulevard corridor, making neighborhoods more walkable and adding affordable and senior housing.

Staff and Design Workshop planners will begin drafting the Comprehensive Plan in July, with more opportunities for public comment throughout the summer. The council will continue to discuss the Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use Plan at upcoming meetings.