The compelling architecture of built structures. The look and feel of grasses, plants, and trees. The smooth, efficient design of roadways and paths. And the overall experience of parks, open spaces, entertainment options, and other activities that can make a place vibrant, thriving, and altogether special.

All this will be on the table – or, to be exact, the corresponding table – at the September 17 “Open House” for the Deerfield Implementation Plan. This is the latest outreach to get citizens’ valuable feedback to inform this guiding vision for this crucial section of eastern Milton’s future.

People can drop into this event anytime between 6 and 8 p.m. that Tuesday at Stonecreek Church (13540 Highway 9). There won’t be any set presentation. Rather, this is an opportunity for attendees to go around a room taking in visuals, sharing opinions, and engaging with project team members who will be positioned by tables dedicated to these topics:

• The look and feel of building architecture
• Transportation
• Landscape design
• Open spaces and parks
• “Activation” – including events, experiences, and whatever else you can do
• “Guiding Principles,” which is a broader, step-back approach to what makes the most sense for this area’s future

For the purposes of this pivotal project, Deerfield encompasses what is in and around Highway 9, Windward Parkway, Morris Road, Webb Road, and nearby locales. The goal is to chart its future for 5, 20, even 50 years that makes this area a destination in line with the community’s vision, that is economically sustainable, and both feels uniquely Milton while also being distinctly Deerfield.

What makes this project different from a more conventional strategic master plan is that it might come together while certain key elements – like new developments – start to take shape. The ideal timeline calls for a “design manual” to be completed by year’s end to guide proposals that may take shape while the overall Deerfield Implementation Plan is also coming together.

For more on this project, go to www.miltonga.gov/Deerfield. On that webpage, you’ll find pertinent information as well as a form where you can share your thoughts or ask questions online.