Example Project Timeline – Ellis Heights

Click Here to Download the Ellis Heights Planning Timeline (50 k)

Creating a Plan that can actually transform a neighborhood is a daunting task – one that must begin with a vision that is embraced not just by those who live in the neighborhood, but those who will be asked to invest in its future. Rockford’s Choice Neighborhoods Planning process began with a number of committed partners at the table. We worked diligently to make sure that neighborhood residents were actively involved in developing the Ellis Heights Choice Neighborhoods Transformation Plan. The goal has been to plan with rather than for the neighborhood.

An integrated and comprehensive approach was used to develop the Ellis Heights Choice Neighborhoods Transformation Plan. We engaged residents of the Fairground Valley Apartments and surrounding Ellis Heights neighborhood as well as a variety of organizational stakeholders including the City of Rockford (police, planning, Mayor, public works, health and human services), Rockford Metropolitan Agency for Planning (RMAP), Rockford Public Schools, Rockford Park District, Winnebago County Health Department, Rockford Health Council, Rock Valley College, faith-based groups and a cross section of other service providers active in the area. Five major community meetings were held to allow the planning team to explain the planning process, understand neighborhood, issues and challenges and opportunities and identify strategies for improvement. A planning Task Force made up of key organizational stakeholders also met on a regular basis to build upon the work accomplished at the community meetings. These partners have continued to help refine Plan projects and make commitments for their implementation.