Everyone talks about developing the riverfront as a means to revitalize Springfield. In talking about that, many people look to Northampton as a source of inspiration. What they forget is that we have two riverfronts; the second one is on the Chicopee River, in Indian Orchard.

I would like to turn the Main Street section of Indian Orchard into a Northampton-style “village,” with lots of shops, bistros, theaters, and a place where artists and craftsmen can set up shop. There are many empty storefronts, a lot of parking, and it is set up to be a great walking area.

There is also the Indian Orchard Mills, which has established businesses and could house others. There is also a lot of old property along the riverfront which could be converted into market-rate condos. Property there is cheap now, making it a more affordable alternative to businesses and homeowners than Northampton would be. It is also convenient to the Mass Pike and downtown