Save Davis Square: Stop the Proposed 26-story Development at Elm and Grove Streets

To: Somerville City Council, Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Mayor Jake Wilson

We, the undersigned residents, business owners, and community members of Davis Square, strongly oppose the proposed 26-story high-rise development at Elm and Grove Streets.

Why This Matters:

This project threatens the vibrant and eclectic character of Davis Square, known for its human-scale, walkable streets and thriving local businesses. We believe the proposed high-rise would significantly increase traffic congestion and parking shortages, hindering residents' and visitors' ability to comfortably access and enjoy the area. Despite assertions otherwise, we believe this project would threatens anchor businesses that draw people do Davis Square without impacting housing affordability in a meaningful way.  

This proposal is a risk for the artists, musicians, and small businesses who have defined and sustained the vibrant community and unique culture of Davis Square.

This proposal presents these significant risks and does not align with the existing zoning regulations established for Davis Square.

What We Need:

We need a Davis Square Area Plan that brings housing to Davis Square, especially affordable housing.  However, the largest development project in the history of Davis Square and the creation of a neighborhood plan cannot run parallel to one another.

The Time to Act is Now:

The urgency of this issue cannot be overstated. We call upon Mayor Jake Wilson, the Somerville City Council, Planning Board, and Zoning Board of Appeals to assert safe harbor from this 40B application. The city of Somerville has asserted safe harbor twice since 2020 and should do so again.  It is imperative to prioritize development and growth that is community-led, responsible, and respectful of the existing neighborhood character.

Act now to protect the future of Davis Square and ensure it remains an inclusive, thriving place for all. 

Thank you for your support.