On November 9, 2005 representatives from the Towns of Andover, Bolton, Columbia and Coventry met to discuss the concept of a regional approach to economic development along Route 6. A Memorandum of Understanding and a Mission Statement was reviewed and was later adopted by the member towns’ governing bodies. Through the Memorandum of Understanding, the Route 6 Regional Economic Development Council was created. The member towns are desirous of: (1) working together to promote economic development along Route 6 and the immediate areas adjacent thereto and (2) creating a cohesive plan for development within the Route 6 Corridor. The corridor begins at the junction of Route 6 and Route 44 in Bolton and extends east through the Towns of Bolton, Coventry, Andover and Columbia to the Windham Town line via Route 66E.

The goals of the Route 6 Economic Development Council are:

1. Create a unified vision for the Route 6 Corridor;
2. Make recommendations to Member Towns for appropriate economic development within the Route 6 Corridor;
3. Make recommendations to Member Towns for coordinated zoning within the Route 6 Corridor;
4. Market properties within the Route 6 Corridor through literature, websites, and other appropriate media; and
5. Apply for grants where appropriate or recommend grants to Member Towns.

As an initial step, funding was obtained through the Small Town Economic Assistance Program for a study to plan and design for the future improvement, economic development and enhancement of the Route 6 corridor. The Study will encourage planning for the future development of the Route 6 Corridor and implement the goals of the Route 6 Regional Economic Development Council by:

1. Addressing the issue of access management and traffic controls.
2. Reviewing and recommending utility improvements to include but not limited to fiber optic and public sewer and water.
3. Reviewing existing land use regulations and recommending regulation changes to create consistency within the Route 6 Corridor.
4. Creating a strategy for economic development within the Route 6 Corridor and determining what economic initiatives are appropriate and realistic for the region.6