Middlesex 3 Coalition Spotlight: Eileen Donoghue, City Manager at the City of Lowell

How has your community navigated the COVID-19 pandemic? The city of Lowell responded swiftly to this public health crisis to deliver essential services and information to all our residents and businesses. Our strategic coordination and crisis communication allowed us to creatively update existing city ordinances to make it easier to do business in Lowell and assist our local businesses scale up operations safely and as quickly as possible.

What is the most exciting economic development project for your community in 2020? WinnCompanies has begun construction on a mixed-use development in our Hamilton Canal Innovation District (HCID) that will appeal to residents seeking urban experience with access to downtown, rail access to Boston, or highway access to the Rte. 3 and I-495 corridors. The city has made significant investments to put in place the infrastructure needed to support private development in HCID. We are nearing completion of a 900 space parking garage as well as embarking on the redevelopment of the Lord Overpass, a $20 million investment that will provide a viable pedestrian link from the Gallagher Terminal to downtown. The HCID is a rare opportunity to have a significant and lasting impact on the development and evolution of Lowell on a scale paralleled only by the city’s founding and the creation of the Lowell National Historical Park.

What attracts businesses to your community? Lowell boasts an excellent location for both businesses and residents. The city is home to some of the nation’s most dynamic companies, from global technology leaders to world-class industrial and manufacturing operations, to retail anchors any city would be proud to have. Since the 1970s, Lowell has seen a remarkable rebirth and revitalization. The city’s job base has broadened beyond its traditional manufacturing core. Emerging technology, education, healthcare, and creative economy sectors have contributed to Lowell’s recent vibrancy and renewed spirit of innovation. Lowell continues to value its rich natural and cultural treasures, honoring its past while looking ahead towards a more sustainable future.

What do you like the most about doing business in the M3 region? Our residents and stakeholders are incredible assets because they care deeply about the success of our communities. Residents and stakeholders start and expand businesses, create jobs, and improve the quality of life for everyone in the M3 region. Additionally, the regional partnerships we have with all the communities in the Middlesex 3 region help leverage valuable resources to foster economic development in the Rte. 3 corridor.