Doug Robinson: Laconia can be a 'social' destination with new districting

To The Daily Sun,

Laconia has a rare chance to do something bold: turn our new social district law into a downtown revival stretching from Hector’s all the way to Canal Street. But let’s be honest, this won’t work if we treat it like a permission slip to walk around with a drink. A successful social district is an experience to remember.

If we want this to thrive, we need a plan that brings people downtown, keeps them downtown, and gives them reasons to come back. That means expanding vendor permits so we can welcome street performers, caricature artists, mimes, craft sellers, and food carts. These aren’t just “extras” — they’re the heartbeat of a walkable, lively district. Every performer or vendor becomes a mini‑attraction that pulls people along the full length of downtown.

We should also host 15 to 20 seasonal block parties in the center parking lot. Imagine summer night markets, a fall harvest fair, winter lights and cocoa walks, and music nights that turn the lot into a community stage. These events would give downtown a rhythm — something always happening, always worth checking out. And with the Colonial Theatre right there if we can't privatize it, we have to be using its crowds to grow foot traffic for local shops. The social district can’t sell itself yet; we need to build momentum around our taxpayer owned cultural anchor.

With thoughtful boundaries, clear signage, and a commitment to walkability, we can create a district that feels like one continuous outdoor plaza. Add in collaboration from local businesses — special drinks, late‑night shopping, sidewalk sales — and suddenly Laconia becomes a destination, not a burden on taxpayers.

We have the law, the location, and the opportunity. Now we need the vision and the will. Let’s build a downtown that’s fun, vibrant, and unmistakably ours.

Doug Robinson

Laconia