PEABODY — The cities of Peabody and Salem are joining with a regional planning agency to plot the future of a roadway that connects the neighboring communities.
Planning officials from the cities and representatives from the Metropolitan Area Planning Council have invited the public to a forum tonight in Peabody to consider what can be done with the Boston Street and Main Street Corridor. The forum is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Peabody Institute Library at 83 Main St. in Peabody.
The MAPC has awarded Peabody a $20,000 grant to develop a "Concept Action Plan" for the corridor. It spans approximately one mile, from the intersection of Boston and Essex Street in Salem to Main and Central Street in Peabody. The streets serve as primary routes into both cities' downtowns.
Planners will give a presentation on the area's demographics and will discuss the current availability of housing — both owner-occupied and rental — and access to public transit, according to a press release prepared by the MAPC. There will be opportunities for area residents and business owners to offer feedback, brainstorm ideas for developing the corridor and connect with the planners. It is expected to be complete by the end of December.
"It's a great opportunity for both communities to plan together," said Blair Haney, Peabody's Assistant Planning Director. The cities are excited about involving the expertise of the MAPC, he said.
The MAPC is a planning agency serving more than 100 municipalities in Metropolitan Boston.
If you go
What: Community forum to discuss the future of the Boston Street/Main Street Corridor
When: Tonight, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Lower level meeting room, Peabody Institute Library, 83 Main St., Peabody
