In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, the second in a series, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Michael Scala, the Economic Development Director for the city of Rochester. Scala shares his background, growing up in a family with a small business, and how that led him to a career in economic development. He discusses the city's focus on revitalizing downtown Rochester by increasing residential density, working with developers to create new housing units at various income levels. Scala highlights successful projects like the Scenic Theater and Salinger Building redevelopments and plans for improving streetscapes and pedestrian amenities. He emphasizes the importance of a diverse housing stock to attract and retain workers for local businesses. Scala also touches on Rochester's collaboration with neighboring communities, the limitations of state incentives for economic development, and the impact of outdoor dining during COVID-19.
In This Week in Dover History, we look back to 1996, when the Dover City Council established a Historical Designation Committee and created an honorary City Historian position to identify and commemorate sites of historical significance in the city, aiming to attract tourists and businesses by promoting Dover's rich history.
