Economic and community development committee reports progress on master plan, Rear Main Street and Greenwood Pool projects

Councilors received a monthly update from the Economic and Community Development Committee and placed the item on file during the April 22 meeting.

Committee chair and council members summarized several ongoing projects: formation of a master plan steering committee (noted as Gardner’s first master plan effort), remediation and imminent work on Rear Main Street, activity around 205to213 Main Street, Greenwood Pool demolition procurement and timing, and submission of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications to the state.

Why it matters: a formal master plan can make the city eligible for federal grants and supports coordinated economic development; procurement activity for Greenwood Pool demolition and the Rear Main Street remediation affect downtown access and near-term construction timelines.

Key details from the update

- Master plan steering committee: the mayor has appointed members; the committee will help produce Gardner’s first comprehensive master plan and will support hazard mitigation planning and future grant eligibility.

- Rear Main Street: staff and the committee reported discovery of cleanup and remediation needs; work is expected to start within about two to two-and-a-half months from the update.

- Greenwood Pool: demolition bid closes April 24; the committee discussed how demolition could affect the upcoming swim season and noted preservation of historical items from the pool.

- CDBG submission: Community Development staff submitted an application to the state; the state will review eligibility parameters and potential funding allocations.

No final decisions were made at the council meeting; the committee update was received and placed on file.