Collierville residents turned out in strong numbers Monday evening for an open house at the Linda Kerley Center, marking a major milestone in the Town’s ongoing Comprehensive Plan update. More than 100 attendees explored interactive displays and shared feedback on topics ranging from economic development and recreation to transportation and growth.

Since announcing the Comprehensive Plan initiative in the spring, Town staff have been actively engaging the community through numerous “micro-engagement” events at local gatherings, including summer concerts on the square and Collierville High School football games. This fall, the Town partnered with Freese and Nichols, a nationally recognized planning and engineering firm, to assist with public engagement and develop the plan. Members of the consulting team, including project manager Dawn Thomas, were on hand at the open house to explain how a comprehensive plan serves as a roadmap for land use, development, and budgeting decisions through the midpoint of the century.

Poster boards throughout the gymnasium highlighted planning themes, and residents added sticky notes with their ideas and concerns. Transportation emerged as a hot topic, with many attendees citing traffic on Poplar Avenue as a major challenge. Others expressed support for growth, provided it is smart and well-planned.

Michael Clark, Collierville’s Economic and Community Development Director, emphasized the value of the partnership with Freese and Nichols: “They bring a fresh perspective that encourages new and creative ideas and helps us think differently about the future.”

The Town will continue hosting public engagement opportunities throughout the next year.

Residents are encouraged to share their input by completing an online survey at colliervilletn.gov/GetOnBoard. The survey is designed for adults and teens alike, ensuring that the voices shaping Collierville’s future include the next generation.