Richard Russo’s thoughtful op-ed, “Creating smart communities” (BDN, July 2-3), on the New Century Bond possibilities in Maine, reminded me that I’ve wanted to put my two cents in regarding the project under way to convert the former Eastern Fine Paper mill in Brewer to a complex involving cultural, living, shopping and business enterprises. I assume the developers will have visited numerous such complexes for inspiration.

May I suggest the Colony Mill Marketplace in Keene, N.H. – a beautiful example of how such endeavors can make use of interesting old architecture to strengthen a community’s infrastructure. Colony Mill, a former textile mill, not only contains a wide variety of interesting shops, it houses numerous small businesses, has a number of excellent eateries and has some of the most lovely landscaping in New Hampshire.

Every season is beautiful at the mill. As a result of the care that was taken in its conception, Colony Mill Marketplace attracts visitors from miles away year-round, including my husband’s former elderly day health program which visited several times a year as one of its many field trips.

I believe this is the kind of treasure to which Russo wants us to direct our thoughts.

Barbara Conroy

Ellsworth