SWAMPSCOTT, MA Library Project – A New Beginning

The Relaunch of the Redevelopment Efforts

Nine months after a grand proposal for a glass-enclosed public library as an anchor for the town-owned Hawthorne oceanfront property received a rocky greeting in a series of public meetings, Swampscott, MA is looking to jumpstart efforts to redevelop the property it purchased for $7 million now more than three years ago. The Select Board is asking for six members of the public to join one representative each from the Planning Board, Finance Committee, and Open Space Committee to help guide the process of soliciting and developing ideas for the future of the property that was referred to as the “future jewel” of the community when purchased in 2022.

The Community’s Involvement

“When we had that meeting in May 2024 and hundreds of people showed up,” Select Board member Katie Phelan said, “there were a lot of community members who had great ideas who were willing to give their time and energy to this committee. So we should make space for as many of them as possible.”

The relaunch is expected to be patterned after the Hadley School Re-Use Committee which eventually led to a boutique hotel being built on the site of the former school. The library concept was billed last April as a culmination of two public meetings and several surveys as a way to bring a year-round public interactive space to the property that could also house public and potentially revenue-producing private events, as well as bring foot traffic to the Humphrey Street business district, while also preserving open space and public views of the ocean.

Impact on the Local Community

The current Swampscott Public Library was built in 1917 and faces challenges with its current location and age. But the ambitious concept received a cool response — at best — as frustration boiled over with the redevelopment process and town government transparency on the decisions that led to the public library concept that came as a surprise to many.

An ensuing public forum elicited widely disparate views on what should ultimately happen at the site. “We don’t always get things right,” former Town Administrator Sean Fitzgerald said. “We need feedback.”

Applications for the New Committee

The purpose of the new committee will be to develop and determine the viability of some of those ideas and attempt to come forward with a narrowed series of concepts from which one will ultimately be chosen for the site. Swampscott residents and stakeholders looking to be part of the committee are asked to apply by Feb. 13.

Impact on Me:

The relaunch of the redevelopment efforts in Swampscott, MA will provide me with the opportunity to be actively involved in shaping the future of my community. By joining the committee or participating in the public discussions, I can contribute my ideas and feedback to help determine the best use for the town-owned property. This project will have a direct impact on the quality of life and amenities available to me as a resident of Swampscott.

Impact on the World:

The redevelopment of the Hawthorne oceanfront property in Swampscott, MA may serve as a model for other communities looking to repurpose public spaces for the benefit of their residents. By creating a new public library or other community-focused facility, Swampscott can inspire other towns and cities to prioritize public spaces and engagement. This project has the potential to spark positive change and innovation beyond the borders of Swampscott.

Conclusion:

The relaunch of the redevelopment efforts in Swampscott, MA marks a new beginning for the town-owned Hawthorne oceanfront property. By involving the community in the decision-making process and soliciting ideas from a diverse group of stakeholders, Swampscott is taking a proactive approach to shaping its future. This project has the potential to not only enhance the local quality of life but also serve as a positive example for other communities looking to revitalize public spaces. By coming together and working towards a common goal, Swampscott residents can create a lasting impact that extends far beyond their town.