The City of Norwalk hosted a Community Forum on the City’s Transit Village Modification at the Norwalk Arts and Sports Complex Sproul Barn Room, 13200 Clarkdale Ave, on March 30 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The workshop was held for residents to provide feedback on a new development plan for the former location belonging to the Youth Correctional Reception Center and Clinic on Bloomfield Ave. between Imperial Highway and Rosecrans Ave. [which is no longer in use].

The meeting was conducted as a forum, allowing residents to voice their opinions in a respectable manner in an open-mic session.

The new plan was developed to promote a green, transit-oriented community by adding new homes and recreation areas throughout the city as well as access points to the Metro Link station.

The conceptual key plan includes remodeling for vibrant single-family homes, a walking path, pedestrian access to the Norwalk/Santa Fe Springs subway station, compatible low-density buildings, and a central community park.

Three main themes of the project were discussed during the meeting: housing choices, health and liaison facilities, and connectivity.

Housing talks will bring affordable housing and housing for seniors and those in need of assistance. The city also aims to add additional restaurants, joints and coffee chops to promote quality relationships and connections.

City officials said they would also consider providing access to Metro Link and Zimmerman Park, previously recommended by Norwalk residents.

In addition to building and remodeling the city’s layout, citizens and city staff discussed adding more greenery and cycling infrastructure.

There are plans to plant more trees and plants to stave off the summer heat, sidewalks and better cycle lanes are being considered to be added, and the metro link will add more destinations to its routes.

Many residents have suggested adding more traffic lights throughout the city to better moderate a potential increase in traffic due to the addition of new homes. Some also suggested better promotion of the metro link for alternative transport.

The meeting focused on housing and catering their residents effectively through surveys and public forums.

Norwalk Transit Village benefits focus on development flexibility and flexible parking resources, which address residents’ traffic concerns.

In response to residents’ concerns, the city and Norwalk Fire Department said they are working with a private partner who will help run the village and keep future homes clean, representable and safe.

The consultants present at the meeting met the guests with in-depth answers and explanations in response to each question and comment, emphasizing the work of the plan.

Take-out lunches were offered to residents in attendance as a “thank you” for their participation in the event and their feedback on the new development plan.

For more information about Norwalk Transit Village and to keep up to date with news, visit norwalktransitvillage.com. Those interested in getting involved can complete the city’s survey located at the bottom of their page.