City of Lowell's Downtown Development Meeting, Thursday, August 20, 2026

The City of Lowell's Downtown Development Authority held a meeting on August 20, 2026, focusing on several procurement and capital improvement initiatives. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of a $42,800 proposal from Rorow Engineering to develop a redevelopment plan for the Riverwalk area, aiming for completion by the city's 200th anniversary in 2031. The plan involves a two-phase approach, including stakeholder workshops and grant application preparation, particularly targeting a $400,000 DNR development grant requiring a 25% local match. Additionally, the board reviewed funding and progress on public art projects, including murals funded through a combination of community crowdfunding and a matching grant from the MEDC, totaling $100,000. The meeting also addressed traffic and pedestrian safety concerns in the Riverside Broadway Triangle area, with plans to study and propose improvements such as raised crosswalks, mini roundabouts, and dumpster relocations, though no immediate spending decisions were made on these items. Motions to approve the engineering proposal were passed unanimously, and further proposals on traffic and safety improvements are expected in future meetings.