Residents oppose 54-unit development plan citing safety and parking concerns

Residents of Northampton expressed strong concerns about a proposed development project during a recent Planning Board meeting, highlighting issues of safety, parking, and community impact. The project, which involves the construction of a 54-unit apartment building at 32 Holly Street, has sparked significant debate among local residents, particularly those living on Phillips Place.

Jane Potter, a resident of Phillips Place, praised the need for development but emphasized the historical significance and current challenges of her street, which is lined with Victorian houses. She noted that the area already hosts multiple housing units, including affordable options, and questioned how much additional density the street could accommodate. Potter highlighted the presence of Cutchens, a facility for at-risk children, and a church providing health outreach, both of which contribute to increased traffic and parking issues.

Fred Zimnock, another Phillips Place resident, raised safety concerns, citing the street's narrowness and heavy use as a parking area for downtown workers. He pointed out that the proposed development would exacerbate existing parking shortages, as the project only includes parking for 25 cars, leaving a significant number of residents without designated spaces. Zimnock argued that the current infrastructure does not support the anticipated increase in traffic and pedestrian movement.

Nina Shield echoed these concerns, referencing a previous road safety audit that identified the intersection of Holly and Bridge Streets as a high-risk area for pedestrian accidents. She called for infrastructure improvements to be completed before any new development, stressing that the safety of residents and pedestrians must be prioritized.

Matthew Hoey, a newcomer to the area, expressed frustration over the scale of the proposed building, describing it as a "massive behemoth" that would disrupt the neighborhood's character. He questioned the assumption that future residents would not rely on cars, citing the lack of adequate public transportation options.

The Planning Board is now faced with the challenge of balancing the need for more housing with the concerns of existing residents. As discussions continue, community members are urging for a thorough review of the project's impact on safety, parking, and the overall character of the neighborhood. The outcome of this meeting could significantly shape the future of housing development in Northampton.