Category Archives: Downtown

Public spaces designated for outdoor dining

Free parking, free public Wi-Fi, and seven designated public spaces downtown where residents can eat and drink are among the efforts by the city encourage patronage of local businesses while still social distancing as restrictions are eased in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19).

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Planning Board endorses Arts District plan

Planning Board members generally endorsed the Arts District Redevelopment Plan with few questions before unanimously recommending the concept during its meeting tonight, held via Zoom.

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Outdoor dining, some retail in store for phase 2

The second phase of the state’s easing of restrictions related to coronavirus (COVID-19) is expected to take effect June 15, and include outdoor dining and some limited retail.

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Planning study to identify new sites

A planning consultant will study underused lots downtown to identify the potential for new uses that could connect recent developments with needed amenities.

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Design work for Amtrak trestle improvements

Decorative panels and a paint job are in store for the railroad trestles and beams in the center of downtown.

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Council accepts Arts District Redevelopment Plan

Sixty units around the former St. Mark’s Church property, another 76 units as part of a mixed-use development at a long-underused property downtown, and pocket parks and murals are among the major components of a new arts-focused redevelopment plan for the northern end of downtown.

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Changes in store for East Cherry Street

East Cherry Street will see some design changes, namely the elimination of bumpouts, along with other improvements to curbs and sidewalks.

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Small business loan relief program launched

Local businesses impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) shutdowns may be eligible for a $5,000 loan.

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