WATERTOWN – City Manager George Proakis presented a new “Demonstration Project” for Watertown Square during a packed community meeting at the Watertown Free Public Library on Monday night.

City Manager George Proakis outlined a proposal focused on the municipal parking lot behind CVS and surrounding parcels, which could be transformed into a mixed-use development featuring a multi-story parking garage, housing, retail space, and public open space.

The proposed garage could add between 100 and 180 parking spaces and is intended to support local businesses with short-term parking, rather than all-day commuter use. The residential component would be developed by a private partner, while the City would oversee construction of the garage.

Proakis described the project as a “proof of concept” for a broader revitalization effort in Watertown Square. Officials said no agreements have been made and emphasized that the plan remains in draft form.

The City has released the Demonstration Project Plan for public review and will host additional community engagement opportunities, including an open house in May. The City Council will ultimately decide whether to move forward with the project.

---

---