Kitsap County’s Department of Community Development is forming a citizen committee to help prepare a master plan for downtown Kingston. The effort builds on a recent series of community improvement workshops hosted by the Kingston Citizen Advisory Council (KCAC). The master plan will become a component of Kingston’s existing Sub-Area Plan, but will not result in changes to the Urban Growth Area boundary, according to a press release from DCD.

The intent of the master plan is to coordinate the vision shared by downtown businesses and residents with infrastructure improvements and current projects such as the Village Green. Kitsap County Commissioner Steve Bauer articulated the need for a master plan at the September KCAC meeting, and asked that group to assist in coordinating public involvement.

“If done right, we can make something special and unique here,” Bauer said. “This master plan will build a core to downtown that attracts outsiders and services locals.”

The downtown planning committee will establish the framework of the master plan and provide ongoing feedback to county staff. Those interested in joining the committee are encouraged to contact the county as soon as possible.

The first meeting of the entire downtown planning committee will occur in late October or November. The planning process will last through most of 2009, and committee members should expect to meet regularly during the first half of the year.

To participate or for more information about the master planning process, contact Pete Sullivan, associate planner of the county’s Department of Community Development, at psulliva@co.kitsap.wa.us or (360) 337-7181.