photo by: Nick Krug

Massachusetts Street is illuminated by holiday lights and vehicles on Thursday, Dec. 14, 2017.

The steering committee that will help create the city’s new Downtown Master Plan will hold its first meeting Thursday.

The new plan will replace guidelines that have not been updated in 20 years, and will cover various topics, including development, open space, transportation, infrastructure and streetscapes. In August, the City of Lawrence hired a consultant firm, Houseal Lavigne Associates, to complete the Downtown Master Plan. The committee will provide the consultant with input on the plan. The committee comprises 18 individuals appointed to represent neighborhood associations, downtown businesses, developers, historic preservation and other interests, according to the committee’s roster. There are also three at-large seats.

The consultants are making their first trip to Lawrence to talk with city staff and meet with the steering committee, according to a news release from the city. The steering committee will meet at 4 p.m. Thursday at City Hall, 6 E. Sixth St. As part of the committee’s meeting, members will review the committee’s role in the process and the scope of work of the project.

The general public will also have a chance to provide input on the plan. The release states that after the initial visit, the consultant will be setting up a project website and beginning the public engagement and input phase of the project.