In the first of many steps, tomorrow brings a gathering of what should be a positive meeting of minds about the future of Mill Plaza. A public hearing will take place tomorrow in MUB Theater I to begin the conversation with the general public about creating conceptual designs for the redevelopment of the nine-acre Mill Plaza property.
"This is a terrifically exciting opportunity for our community," said Dave Howland, chair of the Mill Plaza Study Committee. He is also a journalism professor in the English Department.
"We are beginning a conversation with town residents about what they would like to see in this vital space - our town center - next to our state's flagship university campus," he said in the press release. "We hope together to provide an inspired, realistic design that sets a national model."
There are 13 members of the Mill Plaza Study Committee. Julian Smith, vice chair and town councilman, Ed Valena, committee secretary, along with Howland, initiated talks with townspeople nearly a year ago about this matter.
"That's a conversation town residents didn't have with town or university officials and the original developers of the Plaza 40 years ago," said Smith in the press release. "Back then, all most of us wanted was a real grocery store and more parking close to Main Street."
Other members of the committee include local business owners, neighborhood residents, landlords and the university, as well as representatives from the town's Library Board, Historic District Commission, Planning Board and Town Council.
"They represent a terrific cross section of our stakeholders," said Howland.
Howland said that Mill Plaza's owner, John Pinto, will receive the input and recommendations from tomorrow's public hearing, making it clear that this event is an opportunity for townspeople to voice their hopes for the project.
"It's a lengthy, dynamic process," said Howland. "Our work will hold weight of public opinion and creativity. If the townspeople really participate in this, it will have a lot of support."
Howland went on to say that it is also their task to make great considerations about putting in a brand new town hall, town library and park, as well as more restaurants, shops and residences.
"Zoning actually allows four-story buildings at that site," said Howland, comparing the current buildings in Mill Plaza to that of Alexander and Mills Dorms. "This could involve some landscaping."
He also said the Durham Marketplace is likely to be expanded, as is access to College Brook, which is located deep in the parking lot near China Buffet.
Howland said that it is too early to make any ballpark ranges on the cost of the project, as that matter will be brought up at tomorrow's meeting.
"The cost of a moving target," he said. "If our dreams are big, there is always a possibility for public and private partnerships.
Parking for tomorrow night will be available at Mill Plaza and C Lot, both located on Mill Road. Public comments can be e-mailed to PlazaCommittee@ci.durham.nh.us.
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