Downtown Master Plan Survey Heading to Mailboxes

Published on July 29, 2026

Merriam is asking residents and business owners to help shape the future of Downtown Merriam, and 4,000 randomly selected households and businesses will soon receive a survey in the mail as part of that effort.

The survey supports the City's Downtown Master Plan, a long-term vision for reinvestment, redevelopment, transportation improvements, public spaces, and future growth in the downtown area. Earlier this year, the Merriam City Council approved a contract with Shockey Consulting to lead the planning process, which is centered around community input.

Since this spring, the City has gathered feedback through pop-up events, an open house, and online surveys. Recurring themes have emerged, including walkability and connectivity, support for local businesses, the need for gathering spaces and destinations, preserving community character, and addressing flooding and infrastructure challenges. In fact, in the City's most recent community survey, 82% of respondents said they want to see a downtown that looks considerably different than it does today.

The mailed survey is designed to broaden that input even further by reaching a random cross-section of the community. Residents and business owners who receive the survey are encouraged to fill it out and return it using the included postage-paid envelope — no stamp required.

Community input is a key part of building a downtown that reflects what Merriam residents and businesses actually want. Those who receive a survey are encouraged to take a few minutes to share their thoughts and mail it back.

For more information on the Downtown Master Plan, visit merriam.org/downtown.