A group of local business leaders was recently presented with an overview of Atlas Global Development’s master plan to redevelop Winslow into a regional hub for rail, air and manufacturing and logistics along Interstate 40.
AGD’s Dan Lupien told attendees at the April Good Morning Winslow networking event that the initial phase could begin later this year. The first component would feature housing for the workers needed to serve the manufacturing companies the plan hopes to attract.
The AGD plan would require augmentation of all the town’s public and private services, including a new power generation plant and a new water treatment plant. New infrastructure for gas, sewer and broadband connectivity would also be required, and services at the police and fire departments, schools and hospitals would have to be expanded.
Lupien explained the goal is to essentially recreate Winslow as a master-built city over the existing town to attract large in-migration in a short timeframe.
To assist with workforce training and development, Northland Pioneer College is working with manufacturing companies to design a technical training curriculum.
AGD plans to partner with home manufacturer Cavco Homes to address the housing need. The current vision is for Cavco to construct approximately 500 three- to four-bedroom homes at a cost to residents of $180K-$200K, which would break down to between $1,500 and $1,800 a month.
Lupien stressed AGD is actively seeking public input on the plan, since it would drastically alter the community. He added that timelines could be adjusted if residents feel the pace of change is too aggressive. (Source)
