The City Council voted 7-2 Tuesday evening to approve a controversial $85 million mixed-use development project that will transform three blocks in the heart of downtown.
The development, known as Heritage Square, will include 300 residential units, 40,000 square feet of retail space, and a 150-room boutique hotel. Construction is expected to begin this fall and complete by late 2027.
“This project represents a significant investment in our community’s future,” said Mayor Jennifer Williams. “It will create jobs, increase our tax base, and provide much-needed housing options for residents.”
The project faced opposition from some residents concerned about traffic congestion and the preservation of historic buildings. Two 19th-century structures will be demolished to make way for the development.
Council member Robert Chen, who voted against the proposal, expressed reservations about the project’s scale. “While I support downtown revitalization, I believe this development is too large for our current infrastructure to handle effectively.”
The developer, Metropolitan Properties Group, has committed to include 75 affordable housing units within the project and contribute $2 million toward infrastructure improvements.
Community members will have the opportunity to review detailed construction plans at a public meeting scheduled for next month.
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