Economic Development

Mission
To foster a welcoming atmosphere for new and expanding businesses. This committee grew out of the zoning workgroup as we saw that builders were turning our commercial storefronts in mixed-use buildings into residential-only buildings, mostly because they could not get the funding to redevelop commercial properties. However, we believe that businesses help liven up the street and encourage pedestrian activity, making our neighborhood safer. In addition, in an effort to keep dollars in our neighborhood, we need more small-scale businesses that better serve the needs of our neighborhood.

Projects

• Business Development. Recently we hosted a focus group of real estate agents, developers, lenders, businesses, and local organizations, and we conducted an online survey of residents. Using this information we are preparing a marketing plan to attract new businesses.
• Grays Ferry Triangles
• Southbridge

Meetings
We meet the second Thursday of each month at 7:00pm at the SOSNA office, and we are open to newcomers.

Committee Chair
Tanya Seaman