The Planning Board held its third meeting tonight in which the public was allowed to comment on the proposed Valley CDC/HAP housing development for Parson’s St. Like the Stop & Shop development, there were several concerns about increased traffic.
There were also concerns about the 2-story nature of most of the proposed units, with only two being designed as accessible, since originally the area was proposed as a possible location for senior housing.
I urge all Easthampton residents to attend the next public planning board meeting on Tuesday, March 29th, 6:05pm, 2nd floor of 50 Payson Street. Many valid concerns are being overlooked; such as:
-Traffic: how can an additional 80+ cars be absorbed. The Parson/ Ferry intersection is already extremely dangerous.
-Water Pressure: will your pressure drop?
-Sidewalks and streets: already in need of repair
-Sewer Lines: can the existing infrastructure handle the influx of use?
-Water Table: will you basement flood?
-Non-Prevailing Wage: By using local CPA funds, the project should require prevailing wages to local tradesmen- keep our money in the community
-New Construction: Public funds would be better spent on renovating existing buildings closer to the City's Smart Growth Zone.
-Transportation Access: limited bus routes, out of walking distance to existing services.
-Not Economically Diverse: further saturates the lowest income district of Easthampton
-Fails to Fill the Need: the 2008 Masterplan clearly identifies a need for 3 bedroom unit, yet there only 8 proposed. No priority for current Easthampton residents.
-Questionable Construction Quality: LEED certification should be required as a third party verification of green building practices and quality construction.
PLEASE ATTEND MARCH 29th's MEETING to support a better community!
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