Ruskin lies within the “SouthShore Areawide Systems Plan” area. The SouthShore Areawide Systems planning initiative called for the preparation of six community plans, one of which was for the Ruskin area. The Ruskin Community Plan consists of goals and strategies that address the development of a town center, revitalization of the existing commercial corridors, the establishment of design guidelines for residential and non-residential development, the preservation of the areas environmental resources, the enhancement of recreational opportunities and parks and the protection of the community’s character.