Fall River Mayor Paul Coogan used his State of the Business Address at a luncheon sponsored by the One SouthCoast Chamber to spotlight business and economic development growth across the city.
The mayor noted that last year’s address focused on the “buzz” of economic development activity across Fall River, which he said continues today.
He said the city’s finances are strong, and the local business community plays a key role in contributing to the city’s tax base. One example is continued interest in expanding the industrial park.
The mayor singled out ongoing economic development projects in areas of the city, including the Flint neighborhood.
Mayor Coogan said business and cultural investments have contributed to the revitalization of downtown.
The mayor said the city is moving forward on a plan to develop 19 acres of land that will become available on the waterfront following the reconstruction of Davol Street.
The mayor said he understands work still needs to be done to combat homelessness in Fall River and the rising cost of rents. In six years in office, the mayor said his administration has made a dent in identifying and working to redevelop dozens of abandoned properties across the city.
The mayor said the city continues to upgrade water a sewer lines, and street and sidewalk repair. He said this summer the city will begin the reconstruction of Columbia Street and reconfigure the intersection of Bedford and Robeson Streets.
