New comment form lets users zero in on a particular property for information.

Charlotte’s new online tool for public feedback gets its debut in University City. People wanting to review and comment on proposed changes to the University City Area Plan can do so at http://ucap:charlotteplanning.org. Planners have held two meetings on the changes, including one on Feb. 18, but hope to hear from people who could not attend. The online feedback tool gives users access to an interactive planning map along with extensive documentation on the area plan’s proposed changes.

“This tool allows users to express their ideas and thoughts on proposed land-use categories within the University City Area Plan boundaries,” explained Amanda Vari, the principal planner on this project.

We recently tested the new feedback tool and found it helpful. Visitors to the website can view a brief PowerPoint-style tutorial. The site also has links to the University City Area Plan, proposed updates, documents used at the first two public meetings and comments from participants at the first meeting in December. (CLICK to see related article on the plan)

The comment tool displays a map of the study area, color-coded by zones. Clicking on a zone calls up an overview of proposed changes and a link to a detailed report.  The site allows you to submit comments via a typical form that also requires name, address, phone and email.

Two tips for completing the form

When we attempted to complete the comment form, we experienced two problems that Vari says will get corrected soon. You can easily complete the form with these tips.

• No dashes – The form requires that phone numbers be entered without dashes.
• 250-character limit – You must limit each comment to 250 characters. Use the form several times to submit additional comments. You may also email longer responses directly to Vari at avari@charlottenc.gov.

Want to add your comments?

CLICK to visit the website and get started. Planners will present a revised draft of the updated University City Area Plan at the next public meeting, 4:30-6:30 p.m. March 11 at the Oasis Shriners Center located at 604 Doug Mayes Place in University Place.