The City of Methuen's Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD) has received a Local Rapid Recovery Program (LRRP) grant to help small businesses along the Merrimack Street Business Corridor recover from the economic impacts brought on by COVID-19. DECD is working with Innes Associates, an urban planning and design firm, to create a physical plan to assist businesses in returning to and growing beyond pre-pandemic levels of business activity. Depending on business owner input, the project team will achieve the collective goal of effective recovery with a plan that could include:
- New Sidewalks and Crosswalks
- ADA Accessibility
- Traffic calming treatments
- A Sign and façade program
- Sidewalk furniture and pocket parks
- Tree plantings
- Highway and off-ramp signage
- Assistance with the development of an area business association
The Project kicked off with a survey delivered to the small business owners to elicit their own experiences and ideas for improvements. Next, the project team conducted a Pleasant Valley Walking Tour (PDF) of Merrimack Street between the I495 ramps and Route 113/Pleasant Valley Street on June 3, 2021. This guided tour allowed small business owners and their customers to discuss current challenges and opportunities for growth and improvement of the physical business environment. Finally, a remote Public Forum (JPG) was held on July 19th where a plan with recommended actions was presented by the project consultant and subject matter experts in areas such as façade and signage improvements, streetscape improvements, and marketing strategies.
