Ruth LaChance on Thursday at her downtown Hallowell business, Boynton's Market, one of the businesses concerned about the potential effect of retail development outside of downtown.

A cafe is depicted in this image provided by the developer of Stevens Commons, which is proposed to be turned into a mixed-use area with housing and work spaces.

New housing options in historic buildings are part of what could be built at Stevens Commons in Hallowell.

New streets and sidewalks are envisioned as part of the future of Stevens Commons in Hallowell, the site of the former Stevens School complex.

Affordable housing options are some of the new features proposed for Stevens Commons in Hallowell.

Allowing public access to living and working spaces is part of what's proposed at Stevens Commons.

A public gathering space at Stevens Commons in Hallowell is part of the master plan for the redevelopment of the former Stevens School complex.