Executive Summary

The Comprehensive Plan is Oakwood’s official policy guide for physical improvement and development. It considers not only the immediate needs of the community, but also projects improvement and development 10 to 15 years in the future.

The Plan is “comprehensive” in both scope and coverage. It encompasses the use of land, the movement of vehicles and pedestrians, the protection of community character, and the provision of parks, schools, and other public facilities. It addresses residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, public and institutional lands, and the public rights-of-way.

Plan recommendations are briefly highlighted below. More specific policies and recommendations for each component of the Comprehensive Plan are presented in the sections that follow.

Oakwood’s Comprehensive Plan focuses on the needs of a “mature” community. It strives to maintain and enhance the traditional form, character and distinguishing features of Oakwood, while still promoting high-quality and compatible improvements and new developments in selected locations.

Community Setting

The City of Oakwood covers an area of approximately three square miles, located two and one-half miles south of downtown Dayton. It is also convenient to several major institutions, employment centers, and cultural and entertainment facilities.

Oakwood is a mature, built-up community with a population of approximately 9,200 persons. In terms of physical development, Oakwood is composed primarily of low-density, single-family neighborhoods and has an established reputation as a premier residential community. While existing neighborhoods are quite varied, all are characterized by sound housing stock, well-maintained public improvements, and a quality living environment.

Attractive tree-lined streets and a “pedestrian-friendly” environment characterize its residential neighborhoods. Many of its homes have a style, ambiance, and quality of workmanship very difficult to duplicate in new construction. Most homes are within walking distance of parks, schools, shopping areas, and public transportation. Many buildings have architectural and historical interest. It has a responsive local government, and it offers top-quality municipal services. Oakwood is also served by an outstanding school system. Local residents are both active and informed, and Oakwood has a true “sense of community.”

Goals and Objectives

To be effective, the new Comprehensive Plan must respond to the needs, values and desires of the Oakwood community. Planning goals and objectives help provide this guidance.

Goals and objectives provide an important foundation for the new Comprehensive Plan. Goals and objectives describe what a community wants to become in the future, and establish policies to help achieve that future vision.

• Goals describe desired end situations toward which planning efforts should be directed. They are broad and long-range. They represent an end to be sought, although they may never actually be fully attained.
• Objectives describe broad actions that should be undertaken in order to advance toward the overall goals. They provide guidelines for further study of specific projects, with economic justifications a priority, in order to implement appropriate actions to accomplish the objective.