LONDONDERRY — Growth is steady.
That's the word from area planners during a regional economic update, hosted last week by local Chambers of Commerce.
The Greater Derry/Londonderry Chamber and the Hudson Chamber of Commerce invited local officials and residents to hear updates on each town's growth, and where economic development is headed.
Derry Planning Director George Sioras, Londonderry Community Development Director Andre Garron, Hudson Town Planner John Cashell, and Litchfield Town Administrator Jason Hoch made up the panel of officials ready to give updates and answer questions.
Sioras kicked off the event and said Derry is seeing growth in many areas of town that officials hope will jump start economic development, and bring people and business to town.
He pointed out projects currently underway. Those include a new Wal-Mart off Manchester Road, and plans for a new drive-through Panera Bread, also planned for that area.
"We're happy there's some interest there," Sioras said.
The downtown is another story.
"The downtown is still a struggle," he said, "We're still trying to figure out ways to bring life to the downtown."
Still, there are signs of life.
Sioras said the former Depot Steakhouse on Broadway will soon be home to Sabatino's Italian restaurant.
Longtime downtown business Benson's also plans to build a multi-use building on Broadway.
Other areas with growth potential include land near the Robert Frost Farm on Route 28 and the former Grandview Flea Market, set to go up for sale.
In Londonderry, Garron said growth potential also is positive with the new Woodmont plan moving forward, and other businesses taking up new space in existing areas.
"Londonderry is not unique," Garron said. "We are seeing a lot of business take over existing facilities. That shows a commitment to stay there."
The 635-acre Woodmont plan is huge for town, he said. It would be a mix of business and residential, all packed into a village design.
Garron said the town is spending a lot of time on the project to make sure all things are done right.
For Litchfield, it's a loss of family farms now presenting land opportunities for the future of the town.
Officials said the town's infrastructure is strong and growth is expected, including a Dunkin' Donuts.
Cashell of neighboring Hudson said housing growth has stalled, but plans are out there to redevelop land and bring business in.
All agreed times are still tough for many, but signs of growth continue.
"We have our hands full," Garron said. "It's good to be busy."
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