Community Transformation
ARMI Manchester Millyard Transportation Study
By Deo Mwano Consultancy
ARMI Manchester Millyard Transportation Study
Conducted by DMC | February 2024
In February 2024, Deo Mwano Consultancy (DMC) conducted a transportation study in Manchester, NH to better understand residents’ experiences and perspectives around transportation, parking, and commuting, specifically in the Manchester Millyard area.
This study was carried out in partnership with ARMI (Advanced Regenerative Manufacturing Institute) and the Manchester Economic Development Office, as part of the Build Back Better Regional Challenge Grant awarded to ARMI and the City of Manchester. The grant supports efforts to scale workforce access and opportunity in the biofabrication industry.
A key component of the initiative is identifying barriers that limit access in this growing sector—specifically in the areas of childcare, housing, and transportation. DMC focused on the transportation portion of the work, with a deliberate approach to include all voices.
Study Approach and Outreach
We engaged 500 participants through surveys, listening sessions, and one-on-one interviews. DMC took an innovative, grassroots approach by meeting people where they already gather—such as bus stops, community centers, and temp agencies across the city—to better understand their day-to-day commuting realities.
Key Findings
The study revealed a diverse range of needs:
- Some residents prioritized better pedestrian pathways
- Others emphasized biking infrastructure
- Many expressed the need for improved parking access
- Others focused on more frequent and reliable bus routes
The findings affirm that transportation solutions must be multifaceted and community-specific—there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
This study was part of a larger research effort led by Volpe, U.S. Department of Transportation, under ARMI’s coordination.
Next Steps
The insights from this study will be shared more broadly during the upcoming:
ReGen Valley Tech Hub Community Update Event\ May 23, 2025\ Deo Mwano, DMC’s CEO, will be featured as a panelist during a fireside chat discussion.
Event Link:\ ReGen Valley Tech Hub Community Update
The DMC Community Transformation Team brings over 25 years of combined experience, collaborating with nonprofits, cities and towns, grant makers, and other nonprofits to make a positive impact. DMC has successfully created programs and campaigns that bridge diverse communities, addressing root causes of problems and facilitating sustainable solutions.
