COLDWATER, Mich. (WLKI)- The Coldwater City Council has formally adopted the city's 2026 Master Plan, replacing the previous plan that had guided development since 2017.
The updated plan provides a long-term framework for decisions involving land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure, economic development, recreation and redevelopment.
Coldwater developed the plan with assistance from Progressive Companies. City Planning Director Robert Hawley said the process required significant time and effort from city staff, consultants and residents.
The final plan followed a mandatory 63-day public review period that concluded in September. The Coldwater Planning Commission then recommended approval of the document October 5 before it went to the City Council for final adoption.
Officials said community participation was a key part of the planning process. Residents were invited to provide feedback through surveys, public meetings and community engagement events. Hawley said the city worked to gather input from people across different demographics.
Julie Tschirhart of Progressive Companies said the consulting firm conducted an in-depth community analysis while preparing the plan.
With its adoption, the Master Plan establishes a new Future Land Use Map and outlines strategies intended to guide the city's future growth and development.
City staff supported the plan's adoption, saying it provides goals and objectives to help guide future decisions about public facilities, neighborhood development, parks, recreation opportunities and redevelopment priorities.
The document is expected to serve as a policy guide for Coldwater leaders as they consider development proposals, infrastructure needs and long-range community investments in the coming years.