Residents of Norwood expressed strong concerns during a recent government meeting regarding a proposed development project that would introduce a large building into a residential neighborhood. The discussions highlighted fears that the new structure, described as \"massive\" and likened to a \"junior hospital,\" would obstruct sunlight and disrupt the community's character.
John Kennelly, a local resident, voiced his opposition, arguing that the building's height and density were inappropriate for the area, suggesting that similar projects would not be permitted in neighboring towns like Medfield or Westwood. He emphasized the need for the developers to reconsider their plans to better align with the neighborhood's scale and aesthetics.
The meeting also addressed procedural aspects of the development process, with officials outlining the steps for public input and the importance of community engagement. The board acknowledged that while the developers had reduced the number of proposed units from an initial higher count, concerns remained about the project's overall impact, particularly regarding traffic and parking.
Several board members expressed a desire to hear from the public before making any decisions, indicating that further discussions and adjustments to the proposal may be necessary. One resident, Doris Dixon, submitted a letter opposing the project, advocating for affordable ownership options rather than high-priced rentals and urging that the building not exceed three stories in height.
As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the proposed development would require significant revisions and community dialogue before moving forward. The board plans to continue gathering public feedback and will consider the concerns raised as they navigate the next steps in the approval process.