By Scott Calzolaio

The Milford Ad Hoc Committee, supported by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC), convened on Jan. 7 to again discuss progress on the town’s Comprehensive Plan. 

The plan is set for completion in March and aims to address key concerns raised by residents, including economic revitalization, housing affordability, transportation issues, and environmental sustainability.

At its January meeting, the committee shared findings from a series of community engagement sessions held throughout the fall, which included public forums, surveys, and targeted discussions with groups such as the Youth Council, senior residents, and immigrant communities.

MAPC Manager of the General Land Use Division, Josh Fiala, said that by using ChatGPT, they were able to quickly isolate and break down themes in the data they’ve been collecting.

“A lot of this information is feedback from specific goals,” he said. “So we’re seeing how these conversations will start to modify some of the goals as well.” 

Residents voiced support for initiatives to improve cultural integration, particularly as Milford continues to welcome growing populations from Brazil, Ecuador, and Haiti. Suggestions included expanding multilingual services, creating more inclusive community events, and ensuring cultural representation in town affairs.

Economic development emerged as another top priority, with many residents calling for a revitalized downtown area. The results show a widespread interest in transforming the town center into a hub of cultural and business activity with more restaurants, shops, and family-friendly spaces. Parking and traffic management also drew significant attention, with residents urging officials to address safety concerns, reduce congestion, and improve public transportation.

Housing affordability remains a critical issue in Milford. Rising property values and limited rental options have made it increasingly difficult for families to secure affordable housing. Residents pointed to overcrowding in older properties, deteriorating housing conditions, and escalating rents as urgent problems requiring intervention.

Public services were another area of concern, particularly for underserved populations. Community members expressed the need for more robust resources, including afterschool programs, adult English classes, and expanded healthcare options. 

The senior center was highlighted as a valuable resource, though residents called for more comprehensive services to address homelessness, food insecurity, and poverty.

The committee also emphasized the importance of preserving Milford’s natural environment and open spaces. Challenges such as stormwater management, development pressure on protected land, and gaps in park accessibility were identified. Proposed solutions include expanding neighborhood parks, connecting existing green spaces, and improving recreational facilities. Efforts to protect local water resources, such as the Charles River and Echo Lake, were also discussed, with officials noting the importance of addressing contamination risks and strengthening water management policies.

Overall, the plan aims to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and cohesive community, with targeted strategies for economic growth, improved public services, and environmental resilience, according to a vision statement. The final version will incorporate feedback from more upcoming forums and workshops, ensuring that residents’ voices continue to shape the town’s priorities.

The Comprehensive Plan is on track for completion by March 2025, with a final community forum scheduled to review its goals and implementation strategies. For more information and updates, residents are encouraged to visit the plan’s official website at Milford Plan 2024.

The plan is set for completion in March and aims to address key concerns raised by residents, including economic revitalization, housing affordability, transportation issues, and environmental sustainability.