October 11, 2024
Dear Members of the City Planning Commission,
I hope this letter finds you well. As a long-standing resident of our wonderful neighborhood, I am writing to express both my enthusiasm and concerns regarding the upcoming plans for growth, including new housing and retail developments in the Gaslight District.
Having lived in this neighborhood for seven years, we are very excited about the opportunities that this growth represents, particularly the potential to enhance our community. However, as current residents who experience the daily rhythms of this neighborhood, we believe it is essential to offer some valuable insight to ensure that any new developments will improve, rather than compromise, the quality of life here.
First and foremost, the safety of our children is our highest priority. Many of the families in our area, including mine, have children of all ages who walk, bike and scooter to and from school every day. We frequent Collins Park, Reeds Lake Trails, the library, and gaslight with our families. Traffic is already a major concern, and we believe that increased vehicle traffic on our small roads could pose serious safety risks. We urge you to consider whether the current infrastructure can support more vehicles and, if not, what measures can be taken to mitigate the potential for accidents. We feel that traffic management must be the foundation of any growth plans, particularly the frequently dangerous intersection of Lakeside and Greenwood.
Additionally, we would like to stress the importance of preserving the charm and character of our neighborhood. The small, quaint streets and close-knit community are what make this area so special. It is important that new development reflects this identity, rather than transforming it into something unrecognizable. This includes keeping building heights and sizes modest, rather than allowing massive structures that would overwhelm the character of the area.
When it comes to housing, we strongly advocate for the inclusion of predominantly owned condominiums or single-family homes. We recognize the need for affordable housing, and we believe strict caps on rental properties will help ensure that residents have a long-term stake in the community. This approach will make it easier for families and retirees to remain in the area, fostering stability and continuity. We also support transitioning away from mixed-use zoning in the Greenwood area, converting it entirely to R-2 and R-3 residential zoning. This would allow for a gradual phase-out of variances, as businesses in that area can relocate to more commercial parts of the new development. Growth should support our community and schools, and the lives of those who already call this neighborhood home.
We look forward to the exciting changes ahead and hope to see a thoughtful, community-centered approach to planning that considers both new and current residents. Thank you for your time and dedication to making our city a better place for all.
Sincerely,
Krishna Dandamudi