LIVERMORE FALLS – Developing the river front was the idea that brought the most feedback from citizens at the public forum Tuesday night.

Consultants recommended locating development in the Gazebo area, near the river bank by the municipal building, as well as areas up and down the Androscoggin River, for river walks.

Todd Richardson of Richardson Associates and Robert Baldacci and Ned Menoyo of Pierce-Atwood Consulting suggested the relationship of the town to the river is an historic one.

“You should be inspired by that history, not encumbered by it,” they advised the group, suggesting it could develop into a sense of identity.

The men recommended improving signs at the various gateways into town, especially coming across the bridge where ornamental lighting could provide a unique identity.

A visitor center at the intersection, beautification of the roadside at Cumberland Farms, and directional signs to points of interest were all suggested.

Another part of their vision is to make the downtown area more pedestrian friendly with a key issue making it safe and enjoyable to shop.

Features of that plan would include a traffic light at Chuck Wagon corner, removal of the wall at the municipal building, some screening of parking lots, better lighting, benches and trash containers, along with development of Union Park and focus on Richardson Cemetery.

Better and safer access to Foundry Road was considered a goal as the recreation field and canoe launch are located there.

“It’s an amazing resource you have down there,” Richardson said. One way to provide access would be to have a pedestrian link from Depot Street near the senior housing.

Baldacci described the major points in a blueprint for development over the next few years, which included the establishment of a non-profit Downtown Development Corp.

“This is community development, the goal is to have it take on a life of its own,” he stressed. “We see a town that has tremendous potential, the ingredients are right here,” said Menoyo.

The men will now create their final report for the town including all their recommendations.

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