COM 3536 #2025 : A communication was received from Barbara Powell, regarding Please vote NO on the proposed upzoning.

Summary

Barbara Powell submitted a communication to the Cambridge City Council urging a NO vote on a proposed "massive upzoning" affecting Massachusetts Avenue and Cambridge Street. The proposal would allow buildings to rise to 8, 12, 15, and 18 stories, or potentially higher, without adequate parking, viable public open space, or setbacks. Powell argues this upzoning would displace local businesses and eliminate naturally affordable homes. Furthermore, it would hinder affordable housing (AHO) developers by precluding legal appeals and requirements for parking and open space. The communication also states that these plans deviate significantly from working group agreements and contradict the city's new 2025 design guidelines, thereby circumventing public process.

Citizen Impact

If approved, this upzoning could lead to significantly taller buildings (8-18+ stories) on Massachusetts Avenue and Cambridge Street, potentially causing displacement of local businesses and naturally affordable homes. Residents may also experience increased parking difficulties and a lack of public open space.

Confidence

high