
Comprehensive Plan
This Comprehensive Plan presents a vision for the future of the Greater Bemidji Area and a clear direction for community action. It is based on locally established visions, goals, and policies derived through public participation. The individual chapters outline in more specific terms the goals and policies to ensure the Greater Bemidji Area grows in a way that:
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Supports the values of the community, enhances economic vitality;
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Promotes maintenance and enhancement of existing neighborhoods and commercial districts (including downtown Bemidji);
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Provides affordable housing for all ages and groups; and
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Determines and reinforces approaches for protecting natural resources and open spaces.
The Comprehensive Plan is intended to be a dynamic document used to:
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Guide local officials and staff to assist with development and infrastructure decisions, acquisition and use of land, budget capital improvements, and establish regulatory changes.
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Guide residents, businesses, and property owners to assist in determining property use, understanding possible land use changes in the Greater Bemidji Area, establish reasonable land value expectations, understand future infrastructure improvements, and make improvements and investments to their own properties.
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Guide developers in property acquisitions and coordination of development plans with the goals, policies, and regulations outlined in this Comprehensive Plan.
As the foremost guide for community growth and development within the Greater Bemidji Area, the Comprehensive Plan influences many other decisions. It is intended to be a dynamic document that is regularly reviewed and updated. To Review the Greater Bemidji Area Future Land Use Map, Click Here.
For Acknowledgments, Table of Contents and Resolution, Click Here. The Comprehensive Plan has been organized into the following chapters:
Describes the heart of the city; a vibrant, pedestrian-oriented central district that defines the character and spirit of Bemidji. This chapter will evaluate the existing conditions and establish objectives and strategies that will continue to promote and enhance the downtown district.
Chapter 5:
Downtown Bemidji
Describes existing and future community needs to accommodate demand for new services. Community facilities consist of the structures, infrastructure, facilities, and services administered by the public and semi-public organizations that provide for the day-to-day functions of the Greater Bemidji Area.