It seems—and I say seems because there hasn’t been much other than rumor that I’ve heard—that the heart of downtown Manchester is about to have its most visible change since the creation of new housing and commercial units at 12 Summer Street.
What’s rumored to be constructed are two single residence homes to replace Cargo Unlimited—right at the core of the town and constituting a good percentage of the town’s entire commercial district. The developers have said they will propose plans that fall within permitted uses and conditions thus not triggering any public review.
Aside from the obvious curiosity to know what’s planned, several questions present themselves for which town residents need answers from town government.
Is there a town-wide vision for a vibrant downtown?
What’s the best use of this space for creating this vision?
Is this vision in conflict with the developer’s plans?
How do our Bylaws influence the options for how it may be used? Would any design review be required?
Does the town have any leverage with which to engage the developers in making their project supportive of the idea of a vibrant center.
With a collaborative outlook and whatever leverage it has, has the town talked with the developers about the possibility of adding multiple housing units mixed with commercial space?
Thanks,
