The city council is discussing housing needs and preserving green space in an ongoing discussion about the future of Park Street.
At the Chelsea City Council meeting on October 21, 2024, discussion focused on the potential development of the City-owned Park Street property, with workforce housing being a key consideration. Council considered next steps, including an environmental study to assess the feasibility of using the site as a residential site, while addressing community concerns about preserving the green space.
Mayor Jane Pacheco emphasized the importance of the city’s housing shortage and the need for an on-site investigation. “This was a recommendation from staff to further investigate the potential development of the Park Street land, with particular focus on the council’s aim to address the need for additional housing in the city. ”Next steps include conducting an environmental study, ordering a study, and performing a title search on the property.
However, some city councilors expressed concerns about the loss of valuable green space. City Councilor George Merkel emphasized the importance of this area, saying: that’s it. We will lose that green space forever. I therefore very much hope that this Council will take these points into account. ” He emphasized that this space is part of the fabric of the community.
City Council member Kate Mehuron also advocated for protecting green space, saying, “There is literally no quiet space on the streets that intersect with M-52 downtown. I think we’re looking at a lot of development, but we don’t need to add to that by developing one quiet green space.”
Other members of the council supported doing due diligence and moving forward without committing to the development. “Surveys, title searches, environmental studies do not guarantee anything as far as development or potential future development,” said City Councilman Tony Iannelli. He also noted that new green space at Main Street Park would offset losses from the development of the Park Street site.
During the public comment portion of the meeting, several people shared their views on the potential development of Park Street.
One longtime resident who grew up on Park Street expressed concern about increased traffic and congestion. They said: “When you step out onto a busy street, green space feels like a deep breath of fresh air. It’s a relief from Main Street traffic, trucks unloading Main Street businesses, and school buses. ”They warned that development in the area could lead to a loss of local character, saying, “In 10 years’ time, there will be more traffic, less parking, and what was once a small pocket park with sledding.” All that will remain will be the memory of the place where it was.” You can take a deep breath of fresh air as you pass the hills. ”
Another speaker, who recently returned to Chelsea, acknowledged the city’s housing problem but argued that developing a single site won’t solve the problem. “Chelsea does have short-term housing issues, but having just one block in the city won’t solve the housing problems we face.” They also expressed concerns about parking and environmental impacts. “Attracting more residents without adequate parking provisions could increase traffic, impact businesses, and potentially cost businesses money due to dust and dirt from development.” he pointed out.
Another commenter spoke about the need for workforce housing, especially for local employees such as teachers, janitors, and nurses who struggle to find affordable housing options in the city. They emphasized the importance of considering the long-term impact on communities, saying, “We need vibrant communities that bring together all kinds of people. We have a lot of employers; There is no place to put our employees and we are asking them to drive at great expense.”
Eventually, Chancellor Merkel got clarification from City Manager Marty Colburn that the exploration needed to be done regardless of how the parcel developed. City Council voted to direct staff to proceed with an environmental review and title review of the Park Street property.
