NAI Martens, a real estate developer, is buying a strip of City-owned green space on the south side of McLean Blvd west of Seneca between Fern and Vine to build apartments.  The City Council has been asked to approve re-zoning this land to allow the apartments to be built and the sale to close. 

When the City widened McLean Blvd in '94-'95, neighbors were told it would be maintained as green space and as a buffer against traffic noise and pollution from McLean.  The proposed development will eliminate green space and destroy 40 mature shade trees.

Delano is losing its tree canopy--the City Park Department is removing twice as many trees as it replaces in public rights-of-way and green spaces.  Losing 40 mature shade trees makes the problem worse.  Residents are also concerned about traffic safety at the intersection of Vine and McLean.  Additionally, traffic will increase on Fern, a quiet residential street where children and animals often play.

Finally, this Delano neighborhood already has a high proportion of rental housing.  The neighborhood struggles to maintain social cohesion and retain long-time home owners.  The high rent apartments will be priced beyond the ability of most neighborhood residents to pay, and encourage home owners to leave.

The City Council will vote September 20 to either approve or reject the rezoning application (PUD2022-00011).  A vote to approve the application harms the neighborhood and the environment.  Please join us in asking the City Council to vote NO against this rezoning.