The Situation
On the site of a former grain facility, two mixed-use redevelopment projects were envisioned to meet urgent community needs. The goal was to transform underutilized industrial land into vibrant spaces that could provide affordable and market-rate housing, retail opportunities, and community resources. The redevelopment represented more than just construction—it was about creating a multi-purpose environment that could strengthen the fabric of the town and serve as a foundation for long-term growth.
The Challenge
Like many towns experiencing growth pressures, this community faced increasing demand for affordable housing and accessible public spaces. At the same time, leaders sought to preserve character while accommodating new development. The project team needed to:
- Address housing shortages with both affordable and market-rate options.
- Integrate retail, recreation, and green spaces into a cohesive design.
- Balance developer goals with community priorities.
- Build trust through meaningful stakeholder engagement early in the process.
Without careful planning and alignment, redevelopment risked missing the mark—delivering projects that did not fully reflect community needs or aspirations.
The Approach
Our team played an integral role in shaping the vision and process for these developments. Leadership ensured that planning extended beyond physical design to include a strong emphasis on community voice. Three facilitated listening sessions provided a platform for residents and stakeholders to share priorities around housing affordability, design elements, infrastructure improvements, and public safety. This feedback was directly incorporated into project planning, making community engagement a cornerstone of the process.
Beyond engagement, our contribution included strategic planning and guidance on how to align mixed-use development principles with the community’s long-term goals. By collaborating with local partners in housing, design, and construction, the project was grounded in both professional expertise and lived experience.
The Results
The planning process produced a roadmap for phased development, with construction anticipated to begin in 2025. Plans call for a mix of residential, commercial, and green spaces designed to create a cohesive and inclusive environment. Local partners are positioned to deliver high-quality housing and design, while construction teams are preparing to bring the vision to life. The process also strengthened community trust, with residents seeing their feedback reflected in tangible plans for the redevelopment.
The Impact
These projects represent more than a physical transformation of land—they embody a shift toward inclusive, accessible community development. By combining housing, retail, and recreational amenities, the redevelopment will address pressing local needs while fostering vibrancy and connection. The initiative demonstrates how careful planning, early engagement, and strategic collaboration can turn a dormant industrial site into a hub of community life and economic vitality.