Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed housing development of 12 homes / 2 of which are 40b “affordable “ in the area of 79 Nichols St.
As a concerned resident, I believe that this development is an ill-suited project for several reasons that must be taken into serious consideration by the local boards, committee and authorities.
First and foremost, there is no doubt that affordable housing is needed in Wilmington yet the density of 12 homes being planned for 1.5 acres surrounded by wetlands is far too excessive for the area in question , lots with 18 ft. wide frontage, homes 11 ft. apart. Such high density brings numerous challenges and risks that cannot be overlooked. One of the significant concerns revolves around the safety of the residents and the community as a whole, particularly in relation to traffic management. It is vital to consider that the proposed infrastructure in the area, particularly the roads, are ill-equipped to handle the increased traffic and parking that would result from this development. The area of ingress/egress on Nichols st. could lead to further congestion, unsafe road conditions, and put the lives of both pedestrians and drivers at risk. The density of this development and small size of lots limits the area for parking additional cars creating the necessity for on street parking. This could be catastrophic in a situation where first responders cannot respond to emergencies due to the the gridlock potential. Snow removal and trash/recycling would also be an issue due to this situation that as an unaccepted way would need to be addressed. Where would excessive snow be pushed ? Will there be a common dumpster or will the trash/recycle trucks pick up refuse receptacles?
Additionally, as stated, the proposed housing development is surrounded by wetlands. The preservation of these natural areas is of utmost importance, as they provide numerous ecological benefits, including flood control, water filtration, and habitat for various species of plants and animals. Encroaching upon this fragile ecosystem with new construction would undoubtedly lead to irreparable damage and disturb the delicate balance that these wetlands provide. Consideration also needs to be addressed as to the impact that such a large dense development will have on the long term health of the ecosystem as it is proposed to be built in a wetland that is divided by a stream and bordering the historic Middlesex canal. A canal that is is fed by streams and ponds and flows through streams and ponds thus adding to potential issues in neighboring areas.
Furthermore, according to the proponents, due to the size of this development septic systems are not an option. It is therefore essential to note that the area in question is not within a sewer district. This means that either the town/ you the taxpayer,or the developer will have to pay to extend the sewage line to this development. It is proposed that each of these 12 units will have a holding tank for the affluent and a pump to get it in to the main sewer line . The risk of sewage back up contaminating the surrounding environment, including the wetlands and potentially even neighboring properties regardless of this system is not guaranteed as the holding tanks are 500 gallons and the pumps will rely on electricity that has the potential to fail and the lines to freeze. This poses a significant threat to public health and safety, as well as the local groundwater supply and the surrounding wetlands.
Adequate water pressure in the Nichols St. area is another variable that would need to be addressed as water demand with a sewer hook up would further decrease the pressure that at times can be quite low and could be a safety issue when it comes to fire hydrant pressure.
As stated, the proponent assumes that Wilmington will take responsibility and liability for the infrastructure of this development thus adding yet another unaccepted way to the surplus of unaccepted ways our town is already struggling to resolve.
Considering these pivotal concerns, I urge the local authorities to reconsider this proposed housing development and instead explore alternative options that are less dense, mitigate traffic risks, preserve the wetlands, and address the wastewater issues adequately.
It is crucial that we prioritize the long-term sustainability and well-being of our community over short-sighted development plans that are not motivated by addressing the affordable housing issues but by placating the greed and profit of the developers utilizing the pause in other legitimate 40b projects during litigation to force this project on the town and using the 40b loopholes to circumvent established zoning requirements.
By making environmentally conscious decisions, we can ensure that the area’s natural resources are protected and that the residents’ safety and quality of life are upheld.
I implore the decision-makers to take into account the valid concerns raised by the community and reject the proposed housing development in its current state. Let’s work together to find a solution that considers the greater good of the residents and the environment that is not as dense and dangerous and is truly in the spirit of 40b affordable housing as it was intended.
I’d like to thank Select Board members West, DePalma and State Representative Robertson for their support to the neighboring residents on this issue.
Sincerely,
Robert Warren
Like Wilmington Apple on Facebook. Follow Wilmington Apple on Twitter. Follow Wilmington Apple on Instagram. Subscribe to Wilmington Apple’s daily email newsletter HERE. Got a comment, question, photo, press release, or news tip? Email wilmingtonapple@gmail.com.
Wilmington Apple 