Keating Presentation on Wayne

I attended the Keating presentation for the South Wayne development today. I understand that this is only a "concept plan" at this point but, quite frankly, I wasn't pleased. Too big, too much and what benefits come to my mind initially. The artist's concept showing the post office building with the new condo building looming up behind it, said it all for me...

It was wonderful to see the turnout. The meeting room was packed to overflowing. And there appeared to be unanimity in opposition to the project. I think it was summed up best by one of the commenter's who suggested that we don't need more housing units.

I recognize that this is only an initial presentation but there were far too many "We still have to investigate that" type of answers. Especially given the fact that the project has been festering for maybe 2 years.

The public sales pitch for the project is that we get a larger Library and Senior Center. I would like to see more public discussion about both of these items. I don't know if we really need this or not. For example, what is the role of a public library in the 21st century? As for the senior center, yes it is cramped, particularly from space for the staff perspective but is the need for service being met? Maybe the proposed space should be larger? We don't know.

There were lots of great questions from the audience particularly about parking and stormwater. One question was about the proposed parking being too far from the senior center. Apparently this had not been considered.... Several folks challenged the parking projections and assumptions, again the answers were weak.

I heard several interesting discussions in the lobby after the meeting. We all love conspiracies don't we? It was suggested that the Wayne Overlay took so long to allow this project to to be developed. Also, several folks were asking if the placement of the middle school was influenced by this project, eliminating the potential for two large buildings on opposite sides of South Wayne Avenue.

Stay tuned in folks, this will be another great ride.....