The Hammond Downtown Development 2002 Master Plan Update, was initiated by the Hammond Downtown Development District (DDD), with the professional assistance of the consultant team of Dufreche-Perkins & Associates, Landscape Architects and Planners, Robert J. Marak, Consulting Urban Planner, and Ace Torre, Consulting Urban Designer.

The Plan Update includes input from over 80 citizens, business persons, city officials and Downtown Development District Board and staff. A citizen survey and a 4-day Charrette or design brainstorming session, provided the basis for the direction taken and recommendations flowing from this plan.