The Downtown Coordinating Committee met Thursday to discuss new business in the greater Madison area, as well as new downtown goals for 2010.
Jennifer Tyler spoke on behalf of the Overture Center to describe a two-year project that the center conducted to study its influence on Madison.
""We asked what difference the Overture Center has made to downtown, to Dane County, to Wisconsin, to the entire region,"" Tyler said.
The project documented the various impacts of the center on the city.
""The Overture Center is enhancing the quality of life, the businesses and the economy of the greater Madison area,"" Tyler said. She said the center has enhanced the cultural, educational and community opportunities available in Madison.
The DCC also reviewed Madison's Downtown Plan, concentrating on land use. The plan focuses on the appearance of Madison, including building heights and streetside views.
""We want to create a vibrant downtown. We like how you can basically walk anywhere on foot in this city,"" said city planner Archie Nicolette, who presented the plan. ""It creates a sense of place.""
The Downtown Plan also proposes a new park by the Doubletree Hotel.
""We want to extend East Campus Mall to the potential park,"" Nicolette said. The plan requires approval by the Plan Commission before moving forward.
Members also discussed the committee's 2010 goals. Committee members said the ideas that were put forward will be achievable incrementally over the next 20 years.
""We are going to look at downtown much differently than most people are used to,"" said Tim Anderson, who presented the 2010 goals. ""We want to represent a spirit [in Madison] and, in turn, integrate a bold vision.""
The plan specified potential changes to Mifflin Street, which aim to maintain Mifflin's historical identity.
""We are learning to grow without letting go of our unique character,"" said Douglas Kozel, who presented with Anderson.
The committee's goals also included eventual changes to the Blair Street interchange and the Langdon Street area.
