<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2wZb36_13vVfhaw00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2wZb36_13vVfhaw00" width="1199" height="800" ></figure>The City of Sidney, in partnership with the Sidney Area Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, has contracted with Interstate Engineering to create a Downtown Master Plan - essentially a roadmap for how a community wants its downtown area to look, function, and thrive in the future. Downtown Redevelopment Services (DRS) has been brought in as a subcontractor to lead community engagement and research for the project.The DRS team spent the week of August 11th in Sidney conducting focus groups, interviews, steering committee meetings, and a community visioning workshop. They also launched a public survey, open through August 25, 2025, to gather additional feedback from residents.Preliminary findings point to several recurring themes. Many downtown buildings are in need of substantial rehabilitation to meet modern needs, and vacant or underutilized lots are limiting vibrancy. Redevelopment efforts are often stalled by property owners reluctant to invest or set realistic sale or lease prices.Business operations present another challenge. Limited and inconsistent hours, staffing shortages - especially in back-of-house roles - and the absence of strong business plans for new entrepreneurs make it difficult for downtown to thrive.The research also revealed a lack of unified branding and identity for the downtown area. Residents expressed interest in more frequent and varied events, particularly in the winter months and for families. Infrastructure improvements were also a priority, with sidewalks, crosswalks, drainage, and ADA accessibility needing upgrades. While parking supply is generally adequate, its location, condition, and signage could be improved.Early survey results reflect strong interest in expanded retail and dining options (79.7%), increased greenery and landscaping (64.6%), and more festivals and public events to keep downtown active year-round (68.9%).Next steps include continuing survey outreach, especially to underrepresented groups, and holding additional workshops and targeted meetings with business owners, property owners, and residents. The information collected will guide the creation of draft revitalization strategies, which will be shared for public input before finalizing the plan.Funding for Sidney's Downtown Master Plan is provided by the City of Sidney, Richland County, the Community Development Block Grant, and a Montana Main Street Planning grant from the Montana Department of Commerce.</div></body>

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The City of Sidney, in partnership with the Sidney Area Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, has contracted with Interstate Engineering to create a Downtown Master Plan - essentially a roadmap for how a community wants its downtown area to look, function, and thrive in the future. Downtown Redevelopment Services (DRS) has been brought in as a subcontractor to lead community engagement and research for the project.

Sidney Launches Downtown Master Plan

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The City of Sidney, in partnership with the Sidney Area Chamber of Commerce and Agriculture, has contracted with Interstate Engineering to create a Downtow

Sidney Launches Downtown Master Plan

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