The Haverhill Chamber plans to bring Haverhill’s downtown riverfront to life with dining space and retail booths on the Rep. Brian S. Dempsey Boardwalk.

The Chamber is receiving a $10,000 Commonwealth Places grant from MassDevelopment to buy outdoor chairs, tables, planters, canopy canvasses, lighting and hardware to set up the what they are calling “Booth’lets.” The money is part of the state finance and development agency’s COVID-19 Response Round called “Resurgent Places.”

MassDevelopment President and CEO Lauren Liss said, “During this challenging economic climate, we’re pleased to help the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce set up an outdoor parklet in downtown Haverhill and enable residents and visitors to more easily patronize local restaurants and vendors.” She said the aim of the program is to improve public spaces, create foot traffic and stimulate economic activity.

When complete, the Merrimack Street boardwalk will feature outdoor dining space and booths where local retailers can sell products.

The Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce will also launch a crowdfunding campaign. If it reaches its $15,000 goal, the Chamber receives an additional matching grant from MassDevelopment.

Target timeline: Spring 2021.