Assessment & Design

In order to develop an effective community engagement process that might result in diverse constituencies with ownership in the final plan, CBI conducted an impartial assessment of the interests and concerns of a broad range of Meriden stakeholders regarding Phase II of the Meriden City Center Initiative.

The assessment consisted of confidential, voluntary interviews and focus group sessions with 43 individuals from across the Meriden community. 

Interviews and focus groups were done with individuals who fit generally into a broad range of stakeholder categories, including local businesses, local government, state government, public housing officials, clergy, African American and Hispanic leaders, community activists, local media, families, social service agencies, arts advocates, local employers, and others with specific or general interest in the redevelopment of downtown.  These individuals were asked the following questions:

	What is your vision of a revitalized downtown Meriden?
	What are your thoughts and concerns about the current Phase I plan?
	What information they would like?
	How would you like to be involved in the Phase II planning process?
	What stakeholder groups should be included in a public involvement initiative for the Phase II plan?