Town of Maynard receives grant to study ‘the basin’

October 31, 2019 : Wicked Local Maynard

The town of Maynard has been awarded a sponsorship for a “Technical Assistance Panel” from The Urban Land Institute by MassDevelopment, according to Town Administrator Gregory Johnson.

As part of the grant, the panel will assess the municipal parking lot and surrounding area known locally as “the basin,” to improve its overall functionality as a core of the town, create new economic opportunities and analyze and explore ways to enhance the area aesthetically.

ULI experts will conduct a day-long session on Wednesday, Dec. 11, including visiting various locations and meeting with residents, businesses and town officials. The day will conclude at the Maynard Public Library with a presentation at 6 p.m. to the Planning Board by the ULI panel.

The panel will review their findings, review potential strategies and present recommendations to improve the basin area.

“We are grateful MassDevelopment has made this study possible,” Town Planner Bill Nemser said. “The potential for making the basin safer for pedestrians, creating new business opportunities and increasing its attractiveness is incredible. It will be very exciting to see just what the ULI panel comes up with.”

The Planning Board meeting and presentation is open to all, and the public is encouraged to attend.