URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – In a landmark move shaping the future of the city, the Urbana City Council unanimously approved the Imagine Urbana Comprehensive Plan on July 28, 2025, setting a 20-year vision for growth rooted in equity, sustainability, and community values.
“This plan isn’t just about where we want to go—it’s about how we get there, together,” said Mayor DeShawn Williams. “Imagine Urbana reflects what our community cares about most, and now it’s our job to bring it to life.”
The plan, released publicly on August 20, 2024, is the result of extensive community input and cross-departmental collaboration. Over the past year, the City held six neighborhood meetings, eleven Plan Commission study sessions, four public hearings, and the Imagine Urbana Open House to gather feedback and refine the final document.
The plan lays out strategies for land use, housing, transportation, climate action, public space, and economic development. Early implementation efforts will focus on neighborhood revitalization, infrastructure upgrades, and climate resilience.
The City recognized the dedicated work of Andrea Ruedi, Senior Director for Integrated Strategy Development, and Kevin Garcia, Principal Planner, for their central roles in shaping the plan.
Olivia Jovine, the newly appointed Director of Community Development Services, praised the process: “I want to express my deep respect for the enormous effort poured into Imagine Urbana over the past five years—especially by the staff, community members, the Plan Commission, and the City Council.”
To read the full plan and learn more about upcoming projects, visit imagineurbana.com or contact Urbana Community Development Services at 217-384-2444 or Planning@UrbanaIL.gov.