We all know Greenville is growing insanely fast, right? But do you actually know how fast?

Just a few years ago, the city population estimates for 2030: 71,000+ residents are expected to be living within city limits. Turns out, our city has already succeeded that 71k mark. City council members think it’s due to a large amount of land annexed several years back that wasn’t developed until recently (like the Verdae area).

Greenville City Council met on Monday to discuss updates to our future plans, regarding the Neighborhood Parks Program, Greenville’s Comprehensive Plan, Greenville 2040 and Greenville’s Downtown Master Plan.

The Neighborhood Parks Program is using $2.8 million for park improvements in 24 city parks. A national standard has been set for your home to be located within a 10 minute walk to green space. Right now, only 58% of our city is within that time frame. Chicago is around 90%.

Committee members at the council meeting said Greenville 2040 plans will be adopted by 2019, but don’t think they are making decisions without you. There will be plenty of public outreach + hearings throughout the adoption and implementation. Council member Lillian Brock Flemming suggested reaching out to local universities to assist in GVL 2040, providing them with opportunity + training.

Currently, 19 consulting groups have responded to the Downtown Master Plan, which the committee is now reviewing + expects to finish by Feb. 28. The master plan will include retail + office space, entertainment areas, green space and housing opportunities. City council members voiced the need to maintain or improve diversity in our downtown.