The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee met this morning. They discussed:
- The Baldwin parking lot upgrade. It’s in the final approval stages, including the Representative Town Meeting next month. The goal is for work to begin early next year.
- “Streetscaping” also goes before the RTM in September.
- “Wayfinding” (signage and orientation) is progressing. There is a possibility of using ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds.
- Next steps — including a pedestrian bridge, and an “emerald necklace” were discussed
- Also discussed: a very early idea for Jesup Green (reclaiming more green space near the river) …
- … and potential docking on the water once the river is dredged. The committee recently received a budget earmark from the state for this work. The Army Corps of Engineers will conduct an environmental study this fall.
- One more topic: the addition of the Imperial Avenue parking lot to the list of priorities. This may include a more permanent, multi-use structure for the Farmers’ Market (ideally also for parking during non-market use times), and an upgrade to encourage more day parkers to use the lot.
Chair Randy Herbertson cited “momentum” for downtown improvements.
In other Downtown Plan Implementation Committee news: The group has a new website. Click here for information about parking lots, pedestrian access, maintenance, sustainability and technology upgrades.
The Downtown Plan Implementation Committee looks at both sides of the river.