Jun. 11—LEWISTON — The city’s largest mixed-use development in recent history was approved by the Planning Board Monday, paving the way for the redevelopment of the massive Continental Mill complex.
The approximately $80 million project will consist of 377 market-rate apartments and a total of 45,000 square feet of commercial, light industrial and restaurant space in the historic mill. The homes will complement the 72 mixed-income units already under construction in the center of the complex.
New Hampshire-based Chinburg Properties, known for other historic mill redevelopments, bought the 480,000-square-foot property five years ago, increasing optimism at City Hall that another aging mill could be repurposed. The Cedar Street property also borders the Androscoggin River and is a key component of the city’s Riverfront Island Master Plan.
As construction begins, the city plans improvements to the Riverwalk and a river viewing platform. The developer plans to build sidewalks around the campus, creating a walking loop.
The board voted 5-0 Monday to approve the site plan application, with some conditions, including that the project receive approval from the Maine Department of Transportation and that necessary traffic restrictions be implemented before the building permit is issued.
The development is expected to generate 230 morning peak trips and 254 afternoon peak trips, according to city planner Craig Thibeault. Since the project is expected to impact traffic in Lewiston and Auburn, its proximity will require state approval for a traffic movement permit.
The proposal states that the development will include 287 on-site parking spaces, with a further 280 contracted through the nearby Chestnut Street car park.
During the board discussion Monday, city staff said there have been discussions between the city and Chinburg about a tax increment financing district for the property, which would be used to fund further improvements to the site. However, these details have not yet been finalized or submitted to the city council.
On Tuesday, Lincoln Jeffers, director of economic and community development, said “negotiations are nearing completion” on the nature of the public-private partnership between Chinburg and the city.
“I expect the council will take action regarding the TIF district and development program before August,” he said.
There was some discussion among members on Monday about plans for the building’s entrance and pedestrian-friendly features. Member Shanna Cox said the city should pursue the “long-term, smart investment” ahead of the massive project because of its importance to the entire riverfront redevelopment effort.
This will be the company’s 18th major project, according to Matt Assia, director of asset management at Chinburg. He said many of the building’s historic features will make for unique living spaces.
“We are proud that this project is our next opportunity,” he said.
After the vote, Planning Board Chairwoman Lucy Bisson said, “We look forward to seeing the project move forward.”
Paul Goodwin, senior development and project manager for Chinburg, told the Sun Journal in April that groundbreaking is scheduled for the end of the year and that, barring construction or permitting delays, the first apartments and all commercial space would be ready by early 2027 can be.
Other planned amenities include a private courtyard for residents in the center of the mill complex, a roof terrace, club room and lounge, gym, dog walking and washing area, bicycle storage, laundry facilities and additional washer/dryer connections in the hall. the apartments as another option.
The Szanton Co. is separately developing the Picker House Lofts, 72 apartments consisting of 46 workforce units and 26 market-rate units with one, two or three bedrooms. Work on the building started last June.
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