Mount Vernon city leaders announced they will be creating the city's first comprehensive plan in over five decades.

It's something most cities update every 10 years, setting priorities for topics such as housing, economic development and sustainability.

City officials say they want to hear concerns and suggestions from residents as they embark on creating the first comprehensive plan in 54 years.

"Along with the community's input, we will produce a plan that will solidify Mount Vernon's identity for 10 years and beyond," says Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard.

Patterson-Howard said the plan being created by Metropolitan Urban Design will cost an estimated $250,000. It will outline how the city will manage housing, neighborhoods, green spaces, improve roads and grow businesses.

"Gone are the days with spot-planning in Mount Vernon. It's hard to just spot-plan and create a jigsaw that goes from place to place. This is a comprehensive plan that will involve a comprehensive holistic vision," says Patterson-Howard.

The plan will have two phases. The first focuses on the downtown area, while the second focuses on surrounding neighborhoods.

While the comprehensive plan will take about two years to complete, work on it begins Tuesday night with an advisory committee meeting.

Then next month, the city will begin meeting with stakeholders and holding public forums in person and online.

The city will also be putting up a digital survey for residents to fill out.