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Economic Enhancement Chair's Report, Fall 2008
The Economic Enhancement Committee continues to focus on bringing our database of properties in the Historic Waterfront District online. Gathering of data to populate the database has been accomplished, and we are now evaluating alternatives for programming the database so that it is accessible via the internet. Many thanks to Thor Torgersen and Jerry Sinnamon for their work in that evaluation. Nora Venne and a host of volunteers are to be commended for their work in gathering the data.
The database is intended to build on information available through the assessor's office by being more specific about the types, sizes, and potential uses of space above the first floor. Additionally, the database will allow available space to be searched in aggregate across certain categories. The district-wide database can serve as a helpful tool in attracting additional businesses to first floor storefronts, as well as in vacant spaces on upper floors.
The committee is also working on a grass roots analysis of businesses and services desired by residents of The District as well as downtown employees. Ellen Paul and Mel Foti are heading up that project. The results of that analysis will help in developing a near-term business recruitment plan. From a strategic perspective, a broader and more comprehensive retail plan will emanate from the Intermodal Transportation Center Design project currently on-going for the City.
The Economic Enhancement Committee meets at 5:30 PM on the third Thursday of each month at the Main Street Office. New members of the committee who joined over the summer are Ellen Paul, Ed Perl, and Alan Messier. We are excited for their participation. Please join us and and get involved!
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