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PRODID:-//APA Oklahoma//Conference//EN
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UID:18aa8776-66ef-4df0-9454-3c3876a3296d@apaoklahoma
DTSTAMP:20261115T003533Z
DTSTART:20261110T153000Z
DTEND:20261110T181500Z
SUMMARY:Reimagining the Vacant Interchange: Transforming Underutilized Highway Commercial Sites into Community Assets
LOCATION:Garden D\, Hilton Garden Inn Bartlesville\, 205 SW Frank Phillips Blvd\, Bartlesville\, OK 74003
DESCRIPTION:Vacant gas stations and underutilized commercial properties at highway interchanges are increasingly common challenges in communities of all sizes. Often occupying highly visible gateway locations\, these sites can become sources of economic stagnation\, visual blight\, and missed development opportunities. Yet they also represent some of the most strategic redevelopment opportunities available for creating community-serving destinations\, expanding the tax base\, and strengthening local identity. \n\nThis interactive workshop explores planning\, market\, and design strategies for repositioning a vacant interchange commercial site into a productive and sustainable community asset. Using a real-world case study\, participants will evaluate site conditions\, transportation access\, market demand\, environmental considerations\, and community goals to create conceptual redevelopment options for a former gas station property located at a major highway interchange. \n\nWorking in small groups\, attendees will identify opportunities and constraints\, evaluate redevelopment options\, and create concepts that balance economic viability\, placemaking\, mobility\, and long-term community objectives. Participants will consider a range of potential uses\, including travel-oriented commercial development\, mixed-use destinations\, employment-generating uses\, tourism-focused amenities\, and community-serving development that leverages the site's visibility and accessibility. \n\nThe workshop emphasizes practical redevelopment tools\, stakeholder collaboration techniques\, and implementation strategies that planners can apply to vacant commercial sites in both urban and rural communities.\n\nSpeakers: Shelby Ferguson\n\nAICP CM credits: 1.25
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