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City of Saco asks for public input on 2 major projects

Saco Seeks Community Voices on Twin Initiatives: Housing Action Plan and Portland Road Revamp

By Alex Rivera, Staff Reporter

SACO, Maine – In a bid to shape the future of this vibrant coastal community, the City of Saco is reaching out to residents, business owners, and stakeholders for their input on two ambitious projects that could redefine local housing and urban development. The initiatives – the Maine Housing Action Plan and the Portland Road Master Plan – represent critical steps toward addressing longstanding challenges in affordability, infrastructure, and economic growth. City officials emphasize that public participation is key to ensuring these plans reflect the needs and aspirations of the people who call Saco home.

The call for input comes at a pivotal time for Saco, a city of about 20,000 residents nestled along the Saco River and just a stone's throw from the bustling beaches of Old Orchard. Known for its historic mill heritage and growing appeal as a bedroom community for Portland commuters, Saco has been grappling with rapid population growth, rising housing costs, and the need for modernized infrastructure. These projects, spearheaded by the city's planning department, aim to tackle these issues head-on, fostering sustainable development that balances progress with preservation.

At the heart of the first project is the Maine Housing Action Plan, a comprehensive strategy designed to combat the state's escalating housing crisis. Maine, like much of the Northeast, has seen a surge in demand for affordable housing, exacerbated by factors such as an aging population, influx of remote workers post-pandemic, and limited new construction. In Saco specifically, median home prices have skyrocketed in recent years, pricing out young families, essential workers, and long-time residents. The action plan seeks to outline actionable steps to increase housing stock, promote affordability, and ensure equitable access.

According to city planners, the plan will incorporate a mix of short-term and long-term goals. Short-term measures might include incentives for developers to build affordable units, zoning adjustments to allow for denser housing in appropriate areas, and partnerships with non-profits to rehabilitate existing properties. On the longer horizon, the plan envisions integrating sustainable building practices, such as energy-efficient designs and green spaces, to make new developments environmentally friendly. "We're not just building houses; we're building communities," said Emily Roy, Saco's Director of Planning and Economic Development, in a recent statement. "Public input will help us identify where the gaps are – whether it's more rental options for seniors or starter homes for young professionals."

The housing plan is part of a broader statewide effort, aligning with Maine's Housing Authority initiatives that have gained momentum under Governor Janet Mills' administration. Statewide data from the Maine State Housing Authority indicates a shortage of over 20,000 affordable units, with York County – where Saco is located – feeling the pinch acutely. By soliciting feedback, Saco aims to tailor solutions to local nuances, such as preserving the city's small-town charm while accommodating growth. Residents are encouraged to share stories of their housing struggles, suggest innovative ideas like co-housing models or tiny home villages, and voice concerns about potential overdevelopment that could strain local resources like schools and water systems.

Complementing the housing focus is the Portland Road Master Plan, which targets one of Saco's key commercial corridors. Portland Road, also known as Route 1, serves as a vital artery connecting Saco to neighboring Biddeford and beyond, lined with a mix of retail outlets, restaurants, auto dealerships, and light industrial sites. However, the area has faced challenges including traffic congestion, outdated infrastructure, and underutilized spaces that detract from its potential as an economic hub.

The master plan envisions a revitalized corridor that enhances safety, boosts economic vitality, and improves aesthetics. Preliminary concepts include widening sidewalks for better pedestrian access, installing bike lanes to promote alternative transportation, and introducing landscaping to create a more welcoming environment. Traffic calming measures, such as roundabouts or signal improvements, are also on the table to reduce accidents and improve flow. Economically, the plan could encourage mixed-use developments that blend retail, office space, and residential units, fostering a live-work-play dynamic.

City officials highlight the corridor's strategic importance, noting that it handles thousands of vehicles daily and serves as a gateway for tourists heading to nearby attractions like Ferry Beach State Park. "Portland Road has so much untapped potential," noted Councilor Marshall Archer during a town hall preview. "With community input, we can transform it into a thriving district that supports local businesses and attracts new investment without losing its character."

To gather this input, Saco has organized a series of public engagement opportunities. Virtual workshops, in-person meetings at City Hall, and online surveys are scheduled throughout the coming months. The first session for the Housing Action Plan is set for next week, followed by a dedicated forum on the Portland Road plan in early October. Participants can access detailed project overviews on the city's website, where interactive maps and draft proposals are available for review. Feedback forms allow for anonymous submissions, ensuring even those hesitant to speak publicly can contribute.

This emphasis on inclusivity is rooted in Saco's history of community-driven decision-making. Past successes, like the revitalization of the downtown mill district into a cultural and arts hub, were bolstered by resident involvement. Similarly, these new projects draw inspiration from regional models, such as Portland's comprehensive plan that integrated public transit improvements with housing density increases.

Experts weigh in on the broader implications. Dr. Elena Ramirez, a urban planning professor at the University of Southern Maine, praises the approach: "Involving the public early prevents costly revisions later and builds trust. For Saco, addressing housing and corridor development together could create synergies, like placing affordable units near job centers along Portland Road."

Challenges remain, of course. Some residents express wariness about increased density leading to higher taxes or environmental impacts. Others advocate for prioritizing green initiatives, such as incorporating solar panels or stormwater management in new builds. The city assures that all feedback will be compiled into reports, with revisions to the plans presented for further review before final adoption by the City Council, expected by mid-2024.

As Saco looks ahead, these projects underscore a commitment to proactive planning in an era of change. Climate resilience is another thread woven in, with both plans considering rising sea levels and flood risks along the riverfront. By engaging the community, Saco isn't just planning for tomorrow; it's empowering its citizens to co-author the city's story.

For those interested in participating, visit the City of Saco's official website or contact the planning department at (207) 282-3487. Your voice could shape the Saco of the future – a place where housing is accessible, roads are efficient, and growth benefits all.

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