With Thanksgiving approaching, it seems only appropriate to take time to reflect on the incredible year we've had at the Merrimack Valley TMA. This year, we have helped over 80 member companies encourage their employees to use a shared or "green" commute. By biking, walking, taking the commuter rail or carpooling, these folks have saved over $356,700 in commuting costs during the first 9 months of this year alone! I am thrilled about the success of our programs and I look forward to welcoming more members, introducing more programs and saving commuters more money in 2014.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful holiday season!

Regards,

Andrea Leary
Executive Director

On Thursday, November 14th, the Merrimack Valley TMA Fall Roundtable convened at the Eisai Research Institute in Andover. During this meeting, Buzz Stapczynski, Andover Town Manager mentioned that the number of monthly building permit applications is at pre-recession levels. Andover will also invest in an Early Childhood Center and an improved water distribution and hydrant flushing system. The town manager will recommend a 2.5% increase to water & sewer rates. The rate will be set by the selectmen sometime in January or February 2014.

 

Planning Director Paul Materazzo spoke about the new credit card payment system for the Town of Andover. Starting the first week in December, the First Data FD300 Terminal system will be available for permit payments by credit card for fees up-to $500 at the planning department counter. Larger payments can still be made online. This terminal can track as many as 99 transactions at the same location and each business owner will receive an individual statement and printed receipt.

 

Mr. Materazzo gave a special thanks to all town businesses and the TMA, especially Bill Robichaud of HP for their advocacy.

 

Mr. Materazzo also noted the town is struggling with the location for medical marijuana dispensing locations.  He noted that the River Road and Dascomb Road industrial areas are under consideration for this use.  Andrea Leary told members that she will keep abreast of this situation and keep members informed.

 

The Methuen Rotary construction is scheduled to begin in early 2014 and it will be complete by late 2017. The costs for this project are estimated at $77.2 Million. For more information, please see the link below. You may also sign up for email updates here.

More on the Methuen Rotary Construction

Merrimack Valley Chamber Initiatives

Another key program provided by the Chamber is the Clean Energy Program. This program assisted over 40 companies throughout the Merrimack Valley in identifying ways they can save money through energy improvements and investments and become more competitive in the process.