It is no surprise to me at all. Housing demand has been very high, and the supply continues to be low. The zoning code that currently exists severely limits the ability of would-be developers to build vertically in most areas of the city, even those designated as "urban multifamily" areas. The code MUST change if we are going to be able to have developers and real estate owners build more housing in the city. Without those changes, we are stuck with a limited supply and watching rent prices escalate. Increased density in various areas of the city may also provide other benefits, e.g. a better market for mass transportation that might be profitable (or at least break even).

A pedestrian & bicycle elevated path above the water along the west side of the river would be great. It could start at Bass Island Park (on the Piscataquog), head east to the Merrimack and then head north until it reaches Arms Park (or even go as far as the islands). A few connections to various locations would give many people access to many things (Stark Landing, the north side of Granite Street, the old bridge supports near Waumbec St & Arms Park, Foundry St. on the west side, etc).

This area could house a mid-rise residential building with parking on the ground floor underneath the residences. Dozens of new housing units would help ease the housing shortage (at least a bit). They could be pet-friendly apartments and take advantage of the dog park too! If done right, there could still be a bit of expansion of Bass Island Park onto the SE side of Second St.

It may be worth considering putting a traffic light here to control this intersection (ideally synced with the Queen City Ave / Sundial Ave intersection). A far number of people going north on Browne Ave make an (illegal) left turn on to Queen City Ave.

This area between Liberty Utilities and the MTA is an area that could potentially serve as a connection between South Commercial Street and Elm St / Queen City Ave. An access road could run for a bit between Liberty and the tracks to get closer to the ballpark, or it could cross the tracks quicker and connect to Riverwalk Way somewhere. These options probably wouldn't require the removal of any existing buildings to create more better access.

Zachary Swick
There's a real need for a connection between S Commercial St and Elm St, for all modes of transportation.