Community Relations
Steiner developments act as civic centers – places designed to meet community needs and act as a center for community activity.
Unlike the traditional interior mall development process which often requires clearing attractive surroundings to make way for asphalt parking lots; a new town center seeks to sustain or even add 'greenspace' to the landscape. Trees, plants and water features are integral to the center's design sensibility. The surrounding landscape remains intact to the greatest degree possible.
In the instance of Zona Rosa, a significant amount of money was directed toward revitalizing a watershed adjacent to the property so that it would regain its ecological health. Steiner worked with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to this end and, in February 2005, Steiner and TranSystems received an award from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Missouri in the category of 'Special Projects' for their work in preserving and enhancing the Rush Creek watershed area at Zona Rosa.
The Zona Rosa Community Foundation
Established by the owners of Zona Rosa, the Zona Rosa Community Foundation focuses on providing meaningful support to youth and families in the greater Kansas City area. The Foundation, funded by parking meter proceeds and ticket revenues, offers significant support to area nonprofit organizations through the Change for Charity Meter Program, the Zona Rosa Scholarship Fund and Community Event Sponsorships.
Change for Charity Meter Program
Six organizations are selected annually to receive a portion of the parking meter proceeds and ticket revenues generated at Zona Rosa. The first recipient of the Change for Charity Meter Program was Synergy Services. Synergy’s mission is to eliminate family violence, abuse and neglect by providing quality services for persons of all ages. In addition to the proceeds, the recipient receives the benefit of signage exposure around Zona Rosa. Applications for the Change for Charity program are accepted through October of the year preceding disbursement. Groups interested in applying for consideration should direct applications to Zona Rosa’s Management Office.
Zona Rosa Scholarship Fund
Three $2,000 scholarships are awarded to graduating seniors from the Park Hill School District. This scholarship program awards students who have demonstrated academic ability and perseverance in their continuing educations pursuits. The scholarship is designed for the student who has demonstrated interest in furthering understanding between cultures, ethnic groups or countries. Students who speak a foreign language or demonstrate a strong interest in international studies or in enhancing understanding and appreciation for diversity would be strong candidates. Applications are available through the Guidance Counselor at the schools.
Community Event Sponsorships
Zona Rosa opens up the Town Center as a location for various community events, providing monetary support as well as location, logistical and staff support. 2007 events included the cornerstone “Stand Up for Synergy” event with comedian Wayne Brady which raised funds for Synergy Services, as well as “Taste of Zona Rosa” benefiting The Northland Symphony.
The social aspect of a Steiner new town center focuses on developing a sense of community. There is a true commitment to achieving measurable community impact. The awarding of scholarships at nearby high schools, charitable contribution of revenues from the on-street parking meters and the hosting of major community events on the Town Square all support the community in meaningful ways.
The most compelling statement that can be made about a Steiner development is that its founding principle is ‘sustained use’. The fully-realized town center with its shopping districts, park and community areas is intended to survive not just a few decades but for future generations.
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