BELLOWS FALLS — A public discussion will address an Area Wide Plan for the Bellows Falls Island and Under the Hill districts on Thursday, Aug. 12, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Waypoint Center, 17 Depot St., on the Bellows Falls Island.
According to a news release, the town “is exploring alternative development scenarios that would make this part of town a better place to live, work, and visit. The industrial heritage of the area complicates new development; however, there are funding sources available to address these concerns.”
The 47-acre region includes “perceived, suspect or known environmental impacts, including both petroleum and hazardous substances,” according to a preliminary synopsis from the Nobis Group, an environmental engineering firm working with Brattleboro-based Stevens and Associates to develop the plan, which the town calls “an important step to accessing needed funding support and attracting new development.”
Ideas suggested at a June 10 public meeting include new residential, commercial, and/or industrial development; strengthening the arts scene; improving walkability; expanding information about cultural heritage; and creating fun places for strolling, eating, and more.
The consultants will present alternative development scenarios that include that input as part of the ongoing study, supported by the village and town governments, the Windham Regional Commission, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
According to the website of the Windham Regional Commission, the consultants will take the community through the process to create an “implementable plan,” one that will “help the community identify the highest and best uses for properties in the study area; identify issues related to brownfields contamination; and redevelopment plans for specific parcels.”
Gary Fox, the town's economic development director, serves as the local project lead.