I am writing in support of the mixed-use apartment and parking garage project proposed at the site of the Walnut Street Garage. Specifically, I support “Submission 2” commonly called “Small Garage” that was proposed before the Historic Architecture Review Board on January 3rd, 2024. 

The “Small Garage” proposal will support around 530 parking spaces. This number of spaces satisfies the parking demand for current and future uses. Compared to the current garage, it will have fewer parking spaces, take up a smaller portion of land, and be taller. The “Small Garage” proposal also incorporates feedback from neighboring residents and limits the height along the residents’ backyards. These dimensions allow for a mixed-use retail and residential apartment building on the remainder of the lot. 

A mixed-use apartment building will allow new neighbors to move in and more businesses to occupy the retail portion. Walnut Street will become an extension of the vibrant and walkable Main Street and Broad Street corridor it deserves to be.

I ask you, city council member, to vote to support the “small garage” proposal that meets the parking demands of the city, enriches the walkability of Walnut Street, and increases the housing supply.