New year could mean renewed future for Agawam
Date: 12/22/2009
By Katelyn Gendron
Reminder Assistant Editor
AGAWAM -- A new decade could mean a prosperous economic future for Agawam, come 2010.
The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) unveiled the results of town's first Comprehensive Economic Development Study on Dec. 14. The 18-month study, funded by a $69,150 grant from the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development, identified developable parcels; collected opinions from residents; and outlined five goals for future growth.
"After one and a half years of research, many [of the town's] strengths have been identified," Deborah Dachos, director of Planning and Community Development, said. "Agawam has a very strong and vital industrial base, a stable and diverse tax base, excellent location and well trained workforce.
"But there is also room for improvement," she continued. "Vacant storefronts, limited shopping opportunities and a perceived 'not business friendly image' are just a few."
PVPC Senior Planner Jessica Allan noted the study identified five priority areas for development including Walnut Street Extension, Tennis Road, Garden Street and Shoemaker Lane, South Feeding Hills and Bondi's Island.
The study suggests the redevelopment of vacant or underutilized properties along Walnut Street Extension as well as the possibility for a town or village center.
The development strategy for Tennis Road includes planned unit development, civic and commercial development and open space.
Suggested plans for Garden Street and Shoemaker Lane require the expansion of the Industrial Park.
The study suggests properties in South Feeding Hills be used for small retail and professional spaces, light manufacturing and multi-family housing.
The development strategy for Bondi's Island calls for large-scale commercial development.
The report states possible concerns for developers include the lack of quality office space and that zoning variances take longer to process. Only four percent of property in Agawam is zoned commercial/industrial.
Allan noted findings from the study's two resident surveys, which questioned those in Agawam about their retail needs. Seventy-five percent of residents shop outside of town; 50 percent support the development of Tennis Road; and overall, residents are dissatisfied with retail options in Agawam.
The study requires town officials to focus on five goals: the first, "expand the quantity and quality of employment opportunities through the development of a balanced and diverse economy."
The second goal is to "expand and enhance the shopping opportunities in appropriate areas."
The third goal requires the town to "maintain a skilled and educated workforce that will meet the needs of existing businesses and industries in Agawam."
The fourth goal is to "improve the quality of life in Agawam by upgrading and expanding community services, facilities and amenities."
The final goal is to "continue to invest in infrastructure improvements to address the present and future needs of commercial and industrial properties."
"The study and plan lay a firm foundation for future efforts to promote economic growth in Agawam," Mayor Susan Dawson said. "We know how we can prepare as a community to ensure that when we do grow, Agawam's excellent quality of life can be preserved. Such a plan is long overdue and I am excited to see it implemented."
Dachos explained the next step is to get the study adopted by the Planning Board and City Council. She said if successful, she'll pursue funding for strategic planning.
