To the editor:
In response to Mr. Anthony Chamay’s letter, “3A questions for the Marblehead Planning Board,”:
It is so true. The Village Plaza and the Beacon/Warwick Pleasant Street area is a vital hub in our town that we want to preserve. It’s also true that the Village Plaza is tired, dated and ripe for an upgrade that could actually stimulate and enhance the area. We’ve already had multifamily and Smart Growth zoning in this area for years however, with minuscule development, due to the financial constraints. The same situation exists for 3A.
In areas where the financial dynamics are favorable though, I’ve seen here in the U.S. downtowns that have been revitalized by literally putting residents on top of stores and restaurants in very attractive, well-designed spaces that fit the character of their surroundings. Many European cities and towns also locate apartments and condos above street level stores.
Those owners and renters working from home, could easily enjoy picking up a sandwich, filling prescriptions, working out, shopping, dining and going to the dentist, within a short walk. Even those commuting could potentially have a bus at their doorstep. We can certainly envision scenarios that both preserve and grow our local economy and give housing options to residents.
The affordability issue that Mr. Chamay raises is, of course, completely valid. Unfortunately, the financial realities of the Marblehead housing market and the cost of construction today, will probably lend themselves to incremental growth and the cost of housing will continue to be out of reach for many people. Multifamily housing however is still more reasonable than single family homes.
Some who might take advantage of condos or apartments, even at market rate, are senior residents, who want to downsize to accessible condos or apartments, but have nowhere to move, without giving up the community they love and have invested in. Young workers, maybe with roommates or young couples with two incomes, trying to get into single family homes might be able to get a start. It won’t be a perfect answer for everyone, but it is a start.
Renee Ramirez Keaney
Beverly Avenue
