City of Methuen Master Plan

Economic Development
identified design alternatives. From these design alternatives, a preferred alternative will be selected and
analyzed (June 2007). 15
Importance: The Methuen Rotary is one of the most congested and dangerous intersections in the State. It
is likely that realignment of this intersection will improve traffic flow in the area and may provide
potential economic development opportunities in Methuen and surrounding communities.
Improvements are needed not only for safety reasons, but also to free up local traffic, which would
make the area more attractive for economic development.
Danton Drive/Pelham Street Roadway Improvements
Overview: In order to provide better access to an underutilized industrial area near I-93, Methuen should
seek roadway improvements at the intersection of Danton Drive and Pelham Street. In addition, the
City is working with MassHighway to provide a dedicated right-hand turning lane to allow eastbound
Pelham Street traffic to directly enter the on-ramp for I-93 without having to approach the existing
traffic signal.
Importance: These projects would increase business and employment opportunities for Methuen and
allow for greater ease of access and safety at the entrance to I-93.
Downtown Development Near the Spicket River
Overview: The City recently completed a Downtown Development Plan that envisions
redevelopment of this area, spurred by public investment that takes advantage of the downtown’s
historic architecture and the beauty and recreational potential of the Spicket River. The plan includes an
analysis of market conditions, and concludes that the town center has a comparatively strong core of
services, particularly “high end” services such as business, professional, legal, and FIRE (finance,
insurance and real estate).
Importance: Methuen’s town center has the potential to support additional businesses and
pedestrian activity, which would increase employment opportunities. In addition, the plan
promotes infill development and urban revitalization, and has strong local support.
Extension of Sewer Infrastructure in Griffin Brook Industrial Park and Old Ferry
Industrial Park
Overview: Griffin Brook Park is located between Routes 110 and 113 approximately one mile
west of I-93, while Old Ferry Industrial Park is located off of Route 110 near the City’s eastern border
with Haverhill. Both are conveniently located near major roadways and have the potential to attract
additional employers. Furthermore, there is potential for existing industrial park users to expand
(Griffin Brook) their business operations, as well as provide opportunities and increase the potential for
currently underutilized sites (Old Ferry). Methuen’s Community Development Plan highlights the
extension of public sewer as the biggest need in attracting additional private investment.
Importance: Methuen’s industrial parks have enormous potential to create a wide range of new jobs for
the region.
15 Information on the study is available at www.methuenrotarystudy.org.
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