Infrastructure Related Improvements, LID Strategies and MVP Grant Funding
Weston & Sampson recently worked with Town of Millbury representatives to prepare a revitalization strategy for the Town Center funded by the EPA through the New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission. The strategy includes planning and community outreach to implement a series of infrastructure-related improvements (parking, traffic, streetscape, intersection) and green infrastructure/Low Impact Development (LID) strategies in combination with other initiatives while leveraging new, private investment and restoring relevance to Millbury Center with a more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing retail/downtown setting.
The plan for creation of a dynamic, attractive town center at the heart of the Millbury community includes roadway/intersection repaving, reconstruction of lower/upper commons areas, parking improvements, pedestrian signals, energy-efficient street lighting, drainage improvements, ADA-compliant sidewalks/crosswalks/ramps, and a series of attractive streetscape enhancements (decorative pavers, benches, street trees, landscaped areas, etc.). Our multi-disciplinary team of transportation, landscape architecture, and utilities professionals conducted a site survey and prepared a baseplan, produced preliminary designs, met with town representatives and residents to gather feedback, developed designs from the preferred alternative, and prepared contract documents for construction. Throughout the project, Weston & Sampson facilitated the community process through workshops/meetings with residents, business owners, town representatives, and other stakeholders.
In addition, Weston & Sampson helped the town prepare a Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness (MVP) program grant application and secure additional funding for project implementation. Governor Charlie Baker recently visited the town to announce the award of $1 million in MVP grant funding for climate change adaptation (stormwater infrastructure improvements through the use of green infrastructure).