Input during the 2045 Comprehensive Plan process indicated a strong desire for quality development in Marion. Therefore, the City of Marion is updating its zoning ordinance to ensure that new development contributes to creating quality urban corridors that integrate positively with surrounding neighborhoods. The design standards will focus on the Central Corridor, Highway 13 and Tower Terrace Road. The project aims to develop consensus on appropriate standards for private development on or near these major corridors that allow mixed-uses while mitigating negative influences on adjacent neighborhoods. Topics will focus on land uses, landscaping, lighting, parking areas, signs and more.

The initial phases of the design standards are scheduled for posting by the end of March, with later phases to be completed by the end of June.

Open House

The City of Marion and RDG Planning and Design are hosting an open house on Wednesday, March 26, to gain input from the public on the future vision of the built environment along Marion’s corridors: Tower Terrace Road, Highway 13, Highway 100, Highway 151, and 7^th Avenue.

The consultant and City staff will be available from 4:30 p.m. - 6 p.m. in the Oak Room at the Lowe Park - Arts and Environment Center, 4500 N 10^th Street, Marion. This will be offered in a come-and-go format; no formal presentation will be provided.

Attendees are encouraged to think about how they would like the future built environment along Marion’s corridors to look and provide feedback via imagery boards provided. This process will inform the consultant and City staff how best to draft updated code language pertaining to commercial and multi-family architectural design standards, landscaping, and parking.