Is there support in the community for Merrimack Premium Outlets®?

More than 1,000 Merrimack residents and business owners signed a petition to encourage the Planning Board to put Article 2 on the ballot. With rising taxes a major concern, many residents have expressed strong support for a clean, upscale retail development that would contribute $800,000 - $1.3 million in new, annual tax revenue. That ballot was approved by a majority of town voters at Town Meeting in 2005.

Merrimack Premium Outlets® will continue to work with all members of the community. In Merrimack, as we have been in communities all across the country and in other parts of the world, we will be a responsible and valued corporate partner.

How much new tax revenue would be generated?

Merrimack Premium Outlets®, potential restaurants and a hotel (which are already allowed in the zone) would contribute an estimated $800,000 to $1.3 million in new property tax revenue every year. This is a net benefit to the Town, after estimated costs for additional town services are factored in.

What is Chelsea's record in the communities it serves?

Wrentham, MA, Town Administrator Ed Gil de Rubio writes, "Chelsea GCA has proven to be a positive asset to the Town of Wrentham and its surrounding communities…"

Aurora, IL Mayor David L. Stover says, "Chelsea delivered the type of development they promised, and has kept their commitments to the community."

Massachusetts State Representative Richard J. Ross notes, "Chelsea has been very responsive to Wrentham’s needs…I have no doubt they would offer the same courtesy and respect to Merrimack."

Wrentham, MA Police Chief says, "Chelsea…are responsible corporate neighbors to the community who take their responsibility seriously and act in a professional manner and are a welcome asset to the Town of Wrentham."

See Letters of Support page for more comments.

What about new jobs?

Merrimack Premium Outlets® would create about 1,000 new, good paying jobs in high-end retail outlet shops. They would be a mix of store management and retail service jobs, mostly full time - but some part time - which is great for students and seniors. In addition, approximately 950 construction jobs would be created to build the outlet center.

How would it impact other businesses in Town?

Merrimack Premium Outlets® would complement existing businesses in town. The types of upscale outlet shops that would be offered, and the merchandise they would sell, do not currently exist in Merrimack. The outlet center would stimulate business for many local companies and restaurants, as has been the case in other communities. Chelsea typically hires local companies to provide services such as landscaping, plowing, etc.

What are the highlights of the proposed Merrimack Premium Outlets® proposal?

Merrimack Premium Outlets® would offer up to 135 designer and name brand outlet stores, conveniently arranged in an open-air pedestrian village of boutique shops. The center would be built in two phases, utilizing New England architecture and landscaping. See www.cpgi.com for more details about Chelsea Property Group and its more than 60 Premium Outlet and other shopping centers..