BERkshire township

GATEWAY PLACEMAKING ENHANCEMENT & ZONING OVERLAY

In response to significant growth driven by its desirable location north of Columbus, proximity to major transportation corridors, and rapid expansion of nearby City of Sunbury, Berkshire Township Hired Neighborhood Strategies to design long-term planning solutions. Our firm designed a zoning overlay district that secures future commercial tax revenue while fostering responsible growth and developed a gateway district and placemaking program to enhance the township’s identity and rural charm. Through data-driven strategies, regulatory compliance, and active community engagement, the project promoted economic growth, sustainability, and preservation of the Township’s character.

DELAWARE COUNTY, OH
2024 - Present

SERVICES

  • Zoning Overlay

  • Gateway & Placemaking Programming

  • Community Engagement

  • Government & Community Relations

  • Economic Growth

  • Gateway Vision Casting

>>> Shaping Zoning Regulations to Enhance Community Identity & Sustainable Growth 

Using extensive community feedback, our firm developed a zoning revision plan to shape Berkshire Township’s 36/37 Corridor. Recommendations included enhancing the area with placemaking elements such as sidewalks, uniform street lighting, and integrated pedestrian-vehicular connectivity, alongside infrastructure improvements and incentives for high-value developments.

A new Planned Gateway Overlay District was proposed to align with the Sunbury Parkway Master Plan, offering diverse development options while preserving township jurisdiction. This new district enhances community connectivity and identity by integrating pedestrian-scale buildings, walkable infrastructure, and vibrant public spaces like parks, lighting, and aesthetically designed signage. This thoughtful design strategy supports local businesses, fosters a sense of place, and promotes sustainable, accessible growth. 

Additional measures included supporting “Missing Middle Housing,” implementing a Joint Economic Development District (JEDD), and seeking voter approval for a Revitalization District, all aimed at fostering sustainable growth and economic vitality.

>>> Reinventing Public Spaces as the Heart of the Community

Neighborhood Strategies collaborated with key stakeholders and the community to create a concept for a gateway and placemaking program that complimented the proposed zoning overlay update. The resulting plan was designed to beautify the main Township entrances and corridors, promote community pride, and influence the types of development the community would prefer in the area. Our team recommended active transportation solutions, gateway sign designs and materials, road and intersection options to improve traffic patterns, and landscaping recommendations for interstate ramps, buffers, and streetscapes.