This report includes a summary of the thoughts and ideas developed by the Vaughn Street study circle. We have categorized our thoughts into three major issue areas under the broad goal of Intelligent Growth Management. We have encapsulated each of these areas in brief statements below and as part of the expanded bulleted lists in the Appendix. We believe that these areas encompass the key items that should be addressed in the Portsmouth Master Plan.

The overarching goal of Portsmouth's Master Plan should be to ensure intelligent growth management. We define intelligent growth as that which: maintains and improves upon Portsmouth's unique blend of locally-owned businesses; incorporates progressive and comprehensive roadway access and transportation planning; minimizes sprawl through innovative zoning; carefully manages spending to minimize property tax increases; and focuses on services that benefit residents first and foremost.

1. Affordable Housing For All Demographics

In order to maintain and enhance the diversity of Portsmouth's community, it is critical that the city develop a focused approach to increasing the stock of affordable housing. While this includes subsidized housing, it would also address aggressive first time buyer programs, sliding-scale tax relief for seniors, reduced lot size zoning, and streamlined planning board access for developers of below-market priced housing.

2. Preserve Cultural & Natural Resources

Portsmouth's true character lies in the unique atmosphere created by the rich historical and cultural resources in the shadow of the continuing commercial use of the Piscataqua River port. It is critically important that the City of Portsmouth take on the responsibility of maintaining this character by providing open access to these resources, particularly for residents, while ensuring that they are preserved for future generations. For natural resources, Portsmouth should become a leader in environmental protection by incorporating energy efficient practices in all facets of City business and promoting alternative, non-polluting, sources for energy and transportation. With respect to cultural resources, the City should encourage and nurture local artisans by improving access to studio space in Portsmouth and creating venues specifically for local craftspeople (e.g., a year-round farmer's market, local-only version of Market Square Day).

3. Build Connectedness Through Community Activity for Residents

While Portsmouth's growing allure as a tourist destination is positive in many respects, it can have the unfortunate effect of reducing community activities that are focused on bringing residents together. City-sanctioned events should be developed for the purpose of fostering community spirit. In addition, the City should direct community development funds toward projects that facilitate resident interaction. An excellent example of this would be to forgo a Portsmouth Riverwalk for a more resident-focused project such as improving pedestrian accessibility on Market Street Extension.

Intelligent Growth Management