New Balance Plans Methuen Expansion after Receiving State Economic Development Award

Shoe manufacturer New Balance is set to expand into Methuen after being named the recipient of an economic development initiative award from the Commonwealth. Boston-based New Balance was one of twelve companies to receive the awards Wednesday from the administration of Gov. Charles D. Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn A. Polito, in conjunction with the state’s Economic Assistance Coordinating Council. The incentive awards are part of the state’s Economic Development Incentive Program, and were distributed throughout Massachusetts. The Methuen expansion of New Balance is expected to bring 60 new jobs to the community, along with the retention of 15 current positions. New Balance plans to experiment with new technologies, including an increased focus on automation and 3D manufacturing.

MBTA to Move Bradford Layover Station After Decades of Neighbor Complaints

Following more than two decades of neighbor complaints of noise and fumes from idling trains and the Bradford-based layover station, the MBTA told WHAV this week plans to relocate the station are officially underway. Constructed in the early 1990s, the station serves as an overnight parking space for multiple trains, which start their engines early in the morning. The relocation was approved Monday as part of a larger, $18.3 billion capital improvement package from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. MBTA spokeswoman Lisa Battiston tells WHAV officials are actively contacting area property owners in the new layover location, with design and construction on the way.

Council on Aging to Host Presentation on Haverhill History

Local author and historian Arthur H. Veasey III presents his program, “Haverhill Yesterday and Today,” Wednesday, June 19, 1 p.m., at the Citizens Center, 10 Welcome St., Haverhill. Veasey’s presentation is a visual tour of Haverhill and includes compares photographs of buildings and architectural examples from the 19th century and today. This program is designed for both those who know Haverhill well and newcomers to the area. To register, call the Council on Aging at 978-374-2390.  

 

 

PHOTO: Haverhill Police’s Maldonado, Sheehy Elevated to Sergeant

Two Haverhill police officers have been promoted to the rank of sergeant in the force, Mayor James J. Fiorentini and Chief Alan R. DeNaro said this week. Officers Tiffany Maldonado and Branden Sheehy took their new oaths of office at City Hall June 10 as several Haverhill Police Department colleagues, including DeNaro and Deputy Chief Anthony L. Haugh looked on. Maldonado and Sheehy have been with the department since 2013. In addition to marking the promotions of Maldonado and Sheehy, the department said goodbye to veteran Sgt. John Arahovites, who retired on June 1 with 32 years of service.

Stephen King, J.J. Abrams-Backed Hulu Series ‘Castle Rock’ to Film in Haverhill Friday

Stephen King’s horror series “Castle Rock,” the Hulu series documenting supernatural happenings in the Maine town where several of his hit books are set, is slated to film in Haverhill on Friday, several sources tell WHAV.=

According to a letter from Olive Avenue Productions sent to Haverhill Highlands neighbors, filming is scheduled for Friday, June 14 from 4 p.m.-midnight, weather permitting. Scenes are expected to take over the areas of Highland Avenue between Kenoza Avenue and Arlington Street, the production company said. Filming details are being largely kept under wraps but WHAV confirms “Castle Rock” will also film at Bradford’s Crescent Yacht Club.

Haverhill Education Association Plans Tuesday March at City Hall for Increased Funding

The Haverhill Education Association plans a march at City Hall, 4 Summer St., on Tuesday, June 11 starting at 5:30 p.m.

The march takes place during the budget season in Haverhill, with members of the association hoping to obtain an increase in funding for the school system. The specific budget conference for education is planned for June 18, with the public invited to sit in on the 5 p.m. session in room 204 of City Hall. Parents, students and supports are asked to gather Tuesday for the march at the Roma Restaurant, 29 Middlesex St., Haverhill.

Haverhill Public Meetings: Week of June 10

The public has opportunities to shape policy this week as various Haverhill boards meet. In the interest of transparency in government, WHAV provides this list of upcoming meetings every week. Monday, June 10

The preliminary screening committee to select a new Assistant Superintendent for Finance & Operations meets at 9 a.m. in room 104 of City Hall, 4 Summer St., Haverhill, to review candidates for the position, before entering executive session to conduct interviews. Tuesday, June 11

The Haverhill Retirement Board gathers in Room 303 of City Hall at 9 a.m. to discuss retirement, disabilities, and survivor benefits. In the evening, the City Council continues the special permit meeting for Plaistow Road marijuana shop Full Harvest Moonz starting at 7 p.m. in room 204 of City Hall.