By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

When Craig Burgess drove onto Main Street, he could see why developer Justin McIver is so excited about his “Gateway” project.

“It can be a focal point for Bridgton,” the engineer for Sebago Technics of South Portland said as he opened his brief overview of “The Gateway” to Bridgton Planning Board members last Thursday.

“This has been a long time coming for the Town of Bridgton,” McIver added. “I’m looking forward to making it a reality.” 

Planner Dee Miller chimed in, calling the project, “an eye-sore restoration.”

Before Burgess started his overview, Board Chairwoman Deb Brusini suggested a public hearing be held since the project “is pretty important, complex, in the middle of town, and involves shoreland zoning.”

The motion passed 3-2 (Greg Watkins and Dan Harden opposed). The public hearing will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 7.

Since a more formal presentation, along with questions from the public and planners, will be heard on Sept. 7, Burgess gave a snapshot of the project:

• Two existing buildings will be demolished.

• The parking area will consist of 25 spaces, and one handicap space.

• The structure will cover 6,900 square feet. A brewery and four commercial units will occupy the first floor, while the second floor will feature five residential units.

• Sidewalk upgrades, including trees, mulch planting beds and benches, are slated. “This project will greatly dress up that whole area,” Burgess said.

In reviewing plans, the board offered a couple of areas Burgess and McIver will likely be questioned upon at the public hearing. 

“The elephant in the room is the large parking lot near Stevens Brook,” and concerns regarding phosphorus runoff, said Planner Greg Watkins.

Planner Ken Gibbs wondered if enough parking exists since the brewery is slated for 98 seats, so is there enough parking for customers along with staff?

Planner Cathy DiPietro raised the question about traffic flow to and from the complex.