Probably requires a code change. A solution might be to change the code in a specific area, if supported by the community. Now people come for Harbor, food and entertainment. Mall technique is to have an large anchor store at each end and fill in with smaller shops Spread out Village development to a larger platform. Use uptown as an anchor as an alternative to other parking solutions.
Good spaces attract good tenants.
Today new building is tenant driven, not building to attract a tenant. Demands for space still high, but most calls are for food establishments. The present planning board has a two year process. The Planning board, according to their rules, cannot do economic development. Suggest funding a Village Office of Economic development.