It’s easy to make developers out to be the bad guys, but the only way to keep rents reasonable, and preserve socioeconomic diversity in desirable, T-accessible locations, is to increase the housing supply. No one wants to see too much change, too quickly, in their own backyard – I get that. But blocking high-density construction in walkable urban areas like Davis Square just drives more suburban sprawl, and more long commutes. People who’d like to spend money on local businesses have to spend it on gas instead – it hurts the economy and the environment.

Says all that needs to be said – the original project was approved, it was appealed, and while it was pending appeal, the neighbors got the zoning changed … then they have the temerity to claim this:

“what they consider an erroneous interpretation of the zoning regulations that allow for the combined use”.

So, the neighbors are allowed to get the rules changed mid-game, but then they don’t like when someone plays within the letter of the law?

Proof this isn’t about the developer, it’s flat out NIMBY-ism.

The original plan was for the vent site, which was zoned CBD.
Neighbors didn’t want the condos in their area, and when the condos were approved, the neighbors pulled a fast one … but, oh no, don’t ever point out how the neighbors are acting shady.

It’s always the developers who are bad guys.