Lawton's Comprehensive Plan: Shaping the Future of Our Community

Introduction

The City of Lawton is embarking on a comprehensive planning process to chart the course for the city's future. This collaborative effort will involve residents, stakeholders, and city officials working together to develop a long-term vision and actionable strategies to guide the city's growth and development over the next two decades.

Process Overview

The comprehensive planning process will involve multiple stages, including:

Community Engagement: The city will engage with residents through surveys, public meetings, and focus groups to gather input and identify key issues and priorities.
Data Collection and Analysis: The city will collect and analyze data on current conditions, including demographics, economic trends, land use, and infrastructure.
Visioning: Based on community input and data analysis, the city will develop a shared vision for the future of Lawton.
Goal Setting: Clear and achievable goals will be established to support the vision.
Policy Development: Comprehensive policies will be developed to guide decision-making in areas such as land use, transportation, housing, economic development, and community services.
Implementation Plan: A detailed implementation plan will outline specific actions and timelines for achieving the goals.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation will ensure that the plan is effectively implemented and making progress towards the vision.

Key Planning Elements

The comprehensive plan will address a wide range of planning elements, including:

Land Use: Guiding the appropriate development and use of land for residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational purposes.
Transportation: Enhancing transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, public transit, and pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
Housing: Addressing housing needs and ensuring a range of affordable and quality housing options.
Economic Development: Supporting job creation, business expansion, and economic diversification.
Community Services: Enhancing parks, recreation facilities, libraries, and other essential community services.
Environmental Protection: Preserving natural resources, protecting air and water quality, and promoting sustainability.
Public Safety: Ensuring a safe and secure community through effective policing, fire protection, and emergency response services.

Benefits of a Comprehensive Plan

A comprehensive plan provides numerous benefits for Lawton, including:

Long-Term Vision: A clear and shared vision for the future guides decision-making and ensures that the city's actions are aligned with its long-term aspirations.
Informed Decision-Making: Data-driven analysis supports evidence-based decision-making, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.
Community Empowerment: Resident engagement empowers the community to shape their own future.
Attracting Investment: A comprehensive plan can demonstrate the city's commitment to growth and development, attracting investors and businesses.
Enhanced Quality of Life: The plan will strive to create a vibrant and sustainable community that enhances the well-being of all residents.

Timeline

The comprehensive planning process is anticipated to take approximately two years to complete, with the final plan expected to be adopted by the Lawton City Council in 2024.

Call to Action

The City of Lawton encourages all residents to participate in this important planning process. Your input will help shape the future of our community. Visit the city website (www.lawtonok.gov) for updates and opportunities to engage.