Summary of discussion topics
After discussion the group reached consensus and felt the following were most important to us:
Affordable Housing
Zoning and Development
Arts & Culture
Accessibility
Diversity of Population
We felt the five topics were very closely related and improvement in one area would drive improvement to others Affordable housing is important to maintain a diverse population with varying cultures and socio-economic classes. The availability of affordable housing is influenced by the local zoning ordinances and approved development. Maintaining a vibrant Arts community is also heavily reliant on affordable housing and a population of diverse backgrounds, cultures, ethnicity, orientation and income levels.
Specific areas of disagreement included:
The Route 1 By-pass.
Some members felt that this area should be "cleaned up" while others were in favor of keeping these types of businesses contained to this one location. We did reach agreement on several recommendations detailed below.
Closing of downtown streets
While most members were in favor of some street closing there was wide disagreement on which streets, the affect of the closings and basic feasibility. Suggestions for closing included Pleasant from State to Market Square; Ceres Street; and, Congress from Market Square to Maplewood.
Retail franchises located in the downtown
Some members were in favor of a limited number of franchises while others preferred that all downtown business remain local small business owners. Suggestions were to allow franchises but limit the number of square feet.
Specific Recommendations
Affordable Housing:
It appeared to us, as a group, that every topic discussed somehow tied back to affordable housing. Here are our specific recommendations.
We cannot control housing sales but we can look to the use of available buildings and developments to provide other rental options
Lafayette School?
1895 Cottage Building?
McIntyre Building?
Old DPW
The city should look at successful models from other cities where developers were required, a part of the approval process, to provide various housing options.
Current zoning ordinance inhibits creative housing options.
Combination living and work-space for members of the arts community.
We want the city to come up with a way to provide affordable spaces with new construction and building renovations. Perhaps by providing incentives to developers or through the use of creative zoning.
Zoning & Development:
Green space needs to be created and conserved wherever possible.
Trees should be planted along Congress and Islington Street
Urban Forestry/Sagamore Creek Area should remain undeveloped allowing open space accessible to citizens.
New construction/redevelopment permits should carry a requirement to include green space and our plantings
The city needs to consider creating open space and park space on the land surrounding the Community Campus.
Analyze paper streets and reclaim them, where possible, or sell them.
Limit development along the waterfront while keeping the port a legitimate working port as well as supporting the commercial fishing industry
Potential Developers of a conference center should be pressured to locate at Pease.
Installation of noise barriers along the route 1 By-pass and more enforcement of current ordinances (noise, fumes, etc).
Arts & Culture:
The health of arts in Portsmouth is closely tied to the zoning and availability of affordable housing. Only by supporting the existence of our extensive community will Portsmouth continue to enjoy our high quality of life.
The city should encourage downtown businesses to offer diverse nightlife activities for all ages. This would encourage young people to remain in the city.
The city should be friendlier to arts and outdoor events keeping the city lively and unique.
The city should support an arts center with performance and exhibit space.
The city should continue to support the efforts of the Children's Museum.
Accessibility:
Support the COAST system and encourage more marketing and promotion of the service.
The city should encourage walking by maintaining the safety of the sidewalks and crosswalks. This could mean foot patrols or the addition of stop signs in the downtown area.
Encourage the city to apply for additional grants to increase the scope of the Riverwalk project.
Participate in regional transportation efforts including increasing the COAST service or even providing ferry service from Dover.
Restructure the fee schedule of the parking garage to encourage more walking and use of public transportation.
The city must maintain public access to the river for all residents.
Diversity:
The group recommends that the city more fully encourage multicultural, socio-economic and generational diversity.
The city and its police department should make a better effort to be tolerant of, and encourage the nurturing of, younger citizens citywide.
The city should explore and support activities for teenagers.
The city should encourage more active involvement by all its citizens. Expansion of programs such as Portsmouth listens would help to further this goal.
In conclusion, our study circle found the process rewarding, enlightening and worthwhile. It is our sincere hope that our recommendations, and those of the other circles, be incorporated into the city's master plan.
