Planning Board Recommends Samad Payne Park Master Plan, Urges Public Engagement on Implementation

The Lewiston Planning Board on Dec. 22 voted to recommend adoption of the Samad Payne Memorial Park Master Plan and asked that the city encourage public engagement around implementation and prioritization.

Staff presented the master plan, noting it includes background, an inventory and analysis of existing conditions, design ideas for pathways and amenities, and cost estimates for prioritized elements. Deputy director Shelley Norton described the plan as a guiding vision, saying, "The plan is, of course, being a master plan, not everything will probably get built the way this is laid out here now, but it gives us a vision going forward." The presentation included a festival-event layout and suggested focus areas such as a larger amphitheater/stage, riverwalk extensions, and utility and amenities placement.

Board members asked about implementation funding and coordination with the LCIP and public works; staff said some project designs are already under way and that Public Works has requests in the LCIP. Members raised concerns about vandalism and security and recommended that designers plan for durable, maintainable installations; staff said vandal-proofing and maintenance are part of the design process. Board members also discussed event utilities and vendor electrical capacity, and requested outreach to community groups who run programming in the park.

A motion to recommend adoption, with an added recommendation that public engagement be used for implementation and prioritization, passed on roll call. The recommendation now goes to city council for review and possible action.