Downtown Core
EXISTING CONDITIONS: The Downtown Core area spans the blocks directly adjacent to Main Street and a perpendicular stretch along 6th Street. It is the core of Franklin’s commercial and office activity and offers unique charm and appeal through the local historic buildings, walkable scale, and plentiful parking options. It is currently characterized by small-scale commercial and retail uses such as banks, laundry services, restaurants and taverns, and community churches.
FUTURE RECOMMENDED USES :
- Commercial uses of varying scales and intensities, such as banks and grocery stores, should be encouraged here. Such uses bring revenue and steady activity into this area.
- Retail uses of varying scales are desired to support those who live, work or visit here. Boutique stores, ice cream vendors, and record shops help create a unique character for the area.
- Restaurants and Breweries that offer various cuisines and experiences should be encouraged to support those who live, work or visit downtown.
- Cafes that provide coffee, refreshments, and social meeting opportunities are desired here. Such uses can encourage more people to visit and enjoy spending time in the downtown area.
- Professional Offices/Services that can bring more people downtown on a regular basis are desired. Adaptable workspaces such as co-working spaces and start-up incubators should be encouraged here.
- Art Gallery/ Studio uses that support and emphasizes Franklin’s cultural identity can be encouraged here.
- Residential uses are a key proponent for a safe and active Downtown core. However, such uses in this area should be dedicated only to the upper floors of other uses to support active and vibrant use of street frontage.
- Urban plazas that can encourage and support pedestrian activity along Main Street are desired. Outdoor seating, gathering, and celebration spaces lend character and opportunities to Downtown.
