The City of Laramie, in partnership with the Laramie Urban Renewal Agency (LURA), is excited to host public meetings for the upcoming redevelopment project at the former Public Works building site along North 4th Street. This project represents a key step in revitalizing the area adjacent to LaBonte Park, with plans aimed at fostering economic growth and enhancing the community’s vibrancy.

The URA will present the details of this project at a City Council Work Session to be held on January 28, 2025, at 6:00pm, providing council members and the public more information about urban renewal and about the vision for the North 4th Street redevelopment.

To further engage the community, the LURA will host two open houses at the old Streets Shop (955 N. 4^th Street) on January 30, 2025:

• First Open House: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• Second Open House: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Immediately following the second open house, a special meeting of the LURA will be held at 6:30 PM, providing an additional opportunity for attendees to gain insight into the project and participate in the process.

The plan and project is guided by AVI, an experienced planning and engineering firm with expertise in Urban Renewal Plans and Projects. The project will focus on creating a comprehensive Urban Renewal Plan for the North 4th Street area. This plan will address blight conditions, establish urban renewal boundaries, and explore tax increment financing strategies to facilitate sustainable development.

The City of Laramie and the LURA are committed to engaging the public and ensuring transparency throughout this process. AVI’s approach includes public meetings, council sessions, and collaborative efforts to align the project with the North 4th Street Redevelopment Plan and the community’s vision for the area.

“The revitalization of North 4th Street is a transformative project that has the potential to significantly enhance the economic and social landscape of our city,” said Fred Schmechel, Chair of the LURA. “We encourage all residents to join us at the open houses to learn more about urban renewal and share their feedback.”

These public meetings come nearly a year after the City of Laramie initially sent out a request for proposals on this project in February of 2024. The RFP put an emphasis on residential and commercial recruitment, both of which have been a noted need in the community. 

For more information, visit www.cityoflaramie.org/1244 or contact Todd Feezer, Assistant City Manager and the City of Laramie’s staff liaison to the LURA by email at tfeezer@cityoflaramie.org.