All the facts were not in yet, so most of the public who had signed up to speak, deferred until the Planning and Zoning Commission (P&Z) meets on Thursday, June 21.
Proponents of the 81-unit development describe details tonight to the P&Z. (CLICK TO ENLARGE) Photo from Westport Town Television
But the major points made during the first reading were enough for a couple to rail against it: a six-story, 81-unit one- and two-bedroom rental housing development with 153 parking spaces, all of it just west of downtown, all of it via the state’s affordable housing statute 8-30g.
The proposed location of Cross Street LLC’s development cuts through Lincoln Street, Post Road West and Cross Street.
“This we feel is an ideal location because of its proximity to transit,” said John Fallon, attorney representing the developer.
“It’s a perfect area for multifamily homes, walking distance to the downtown,” he added. “This will be a very attractive rental opportunity for over 50 and young people who want to stay in Westport.”
Fallon also raised the threat of 8-30g which allows a developer to override local zoning laws if a town does not have 10 percent of its housing stock deems as affordable, which Westport does not.
The proposed project would have 25 of its 81 units, 27 one-bedroom and 54 two-bedroom, deemed affordable.
He also said that the burden would be on the commission to prove in court safety considerations if the P&Z denies the project.
Traffic safety was one concern, as the entrances and exits would be onto Post Road West near the intersection of Riverside Avenue, both heavily traveled roads, according to state Rep. Jonathan Steinberg, who spoke against the project.
Cross Street LLC’s traffic consultant Michael A. Galante was unavailable to present or take any questions.
Steinberg said while he supports affordable housing, “smart growth principles remain paramount.”
“This is an excessive use of the 8-30g statute,” said Steinberg, calling it a flawed statute. “It’s a six-story building, which in my opinion would be unprecedented in our community.”
He cited issues of health and safety and how the project would compromise access to fire and emergency personnel, especially with the property’s hilly topography.”
Gregory Kraut, a Republican who is running against Democrat Steinberg, reiterated some of Steinberg’s safety concerns, adding that the project was not appropriate since surrounding houses in the area are listed on the town’s historic inventory.
— James Lomuscio
