About

Project Overview

The Portland Downtown and Riverfront Master Plan is a comprehensive effort to reimagine the heart of Portland by building on the Town’s legacy, addressing today’s challenges, and guiding future growth.

The Plan will focus on three key areas:

  • Riverfront Overlay

  • Town Center Village District

  • Town Parks along the Connecticut River south of Airline Avenue

Within this area, special attention will be given to four key properties on Brownstone Avenue that present major opportunities for redevelopment and reuse.

Over the course of the project, the planning team will:

Assess existing conditions including zoning, land use, infrastructure, and connectivity to identify opportunities and challenges.

Engage the community through surveys, workshops, open houses, and site walks to build a shared vision.

Evaluate environmental conditions and outline strategies for remediation and reuse of brownfield sites.

Create redevelopment concepts for key parcels, including site plans and design and zoning recommendations.

Conduct a market assessment to understand demand for residential, commercial, and mixed-use development.

Prepare a connectivity plan to improve safety, walkability, and access to key destinations.

Project Timeline

January 2026 - June 2026

  • Workshop

  • Conceptual Development

  • Connectivity Plan

  • Implementation Strategy

  • Public Presentation

  • Adoption

Develop an implementation and funding strategy with clear steps and resources to move concepts into actionable projects.

September 2025 - January 2026

  • Existing Conditions

  • Environmental Review

  • Market Assessment

  • Site Walk

  • Open House

Steering Committee

The Steering Committee will guide the development of the Portland Downtown and Riverfront Master Plan, ensuring that the process reflects community values, addresses local priorities, and results in an actionable vision for the future. The committee will bring together a diverse group of representatives, including Town officials, Planning and Zoning Commission members, business and property owners, civic and cultural organizations, neighborhood leaders, and residents. By providing feedback, sharing perspectives, and serving as a bridge to the broader community, the Steering Committee will play a vital role in shaping a vibrant, connected, and sustainable downtown.