Biddeford is growing.  Given the well-planned development to occur there in the next ten years, particularly in the downtown, its economic future is bright.

The final closure of the Westpoint Stevens Mills (1.75 Million square feet of space) impacted a lot of people; it hit the city hard, economically and emotionally.  However, as with many ends (disparate situations), opportunity for a new beginning arises.  Biddeford has seen recent boost in development, and progressive decision-making.  Great examples are the North Dam Mill and the Mill at Saco Falls.  The remainder of the entire mill district (over 1.5 Million Square feet) has recently been acquired by a long-time, personally-invested local developer seeking to do great things for the city with that vast amount of space.  A Master Plan for the mill district (Mill Plan) was completed in November of 2009; it is the guiding document for growth in that part of the downtown.  The Mill Plan includes the Biddeford RiverWalk, which will break ground in Fall 2010.

What an exciting project the RiverWalk is!  The plan is to reinforce the Saco River’s banks and construct a gorgeous half-mile of  ADA accessible riverfront trail, bringing a new focus to the majestic river that divides Biddeford from its “sister” City, Saco.

In addition, the Heart of Biddeford and the Orton Family Foundation have teamed up with the City over the last two years to bring Biddeford a community input-driven Master Plan for the Downtown.  This focused effort on giving the city a downtown that will sustain business; allow for intelligent, centralized growth; clear the way for more efficient provision of resources; and have exactly what the city wants out of its downtown; will be successful because the people’s words are included in the plan.  It is their Plan.

Other ideas for sustainable growth, targeted at minimizing sprawl and maximizing efficiency and happiness, are being thrown around as well.  There is an energy to the downtown; there is a collective commitment to capitalizing on the opportunities and fully realize the potential of this once-great city.  The above steps show that progress is being made, incrementally, to establish a strong foundation to build a business.  Main Street and the Mills are full of opportunity for new and established business alike, and the upper floors downtown buildings are also filling up with renters.

Now is the time to create or expand your business in Biddeford.  It is the Heart of Biddeford’s intent to make the process, from idea to grand opening, as friendly and streamlined as possible.

Utilize the links below, or simply contact our office:

• Business Plan Templates

Small Business Association

SCORE [word.doc]

• Other important business tools
• Maine SBDC Certified Business Counselor:  Gordon Platt   gplatt@usm.maine.edu
• Business Application [word.doc]
• Building Permits
• Code Enforcement Hompage