A housing boom is underway downtown. In addition to the already completed Avalon, Summit, and Davenport Lofts developments, Bluegill Realty is now proceeding with its plans to construct market rate apartments directly on Main Street. The former Lillian Vernon building has been demolished to make way for the new 90-unit tudor-style structure, which will also contain retail on its ground floor. With Avalon’s second phase slated to break ground soon and apartments proposed for Parcel 1A, it is my hope that quality housing will reach a critical mass needed to strengthen the downtown retail environment.
