Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/1497154
34 Marshfield means different things to different people. When I say I live here, people respond with stories about the beautiful beaches where they spent their summers; other people mention going to the Marshfield Fair every year since they were a child; and some talk about the outstanding public schools and athletic programs that are the envy of the South Shore. But very few people mention what I think is one of Marshfield's most exceptional traits — a vibrant small business community that sets our town apart from most suburbs. Sure, we have the white picket fences and two-car garages, but Marshfield is as good a place to do business as it is to raise a family. That is something to celebrate not only because it lets entrepreneurs create jobs, but also because it constantly brings new people into our community. There are three keys to our success: energetic entrepreneurs, new zoning bylaws and robust public-private partnerships. At the last town meeting, Marshfield approved zoning changes that allow for residential development to take place over commercial development. This means that downtown Marshfield can build residential units above retail stores. This type of housing is appealing to young professionals, people starting a family, and also seniors downsizing from a large home. Additionally, having more people living downtown will create a built-in customer base for new businesses, which will then attract new retail stores and restaurants. In 2019, the Marshfield Chamber of Commerce started a formal partnership with the town called the Webster Walkability Initiative. The goal is make downtown Marshfield a walkable, vibrant community that attracts both businesses and residential tenants. Since then, we have installed speed bumps in Library Plaza to make it safer for pedestrians and flashing crosswalk signs across Webster Street. These might seem like small improvements, but they make a big difference. Walkability is essential to business development. Written by Lara Brait, Executive Director, Marshfield Chamber of Commerce Marshfield has made a conscious, consistent effort to make the town an easy place to start and operate a business.