The Burren, SomervillePhoto: Madison Rogers/WBZ NewsRadio
SOMERVILLE, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — A proposed development project in Somerville’s Davis Square is sparking debate in the neighborhood.
A developer's 25-story proposal would stretch from The Burren to Dragon Pizza. It could impact a row of local businesses, though the developer has said they'd want them to return once construction is done.
"No one wants to lose their jobs," said Rigo, a manager at McKinnon's Meat Market — one of the stores on the property. "It will change the whole square completely, I think."
Kevin, an architect who works in Davis Square, also expressed concerns the building would harm the neighborhood's character.
“There’s a tug and a pull between maximizing out a design and respecting a neighborhood's scale,” he said.
Others say the dire need for more affordable housing in Somerville outweighs the concerns.
"We need affordable housing for people who can't afford the ridiculous prices in this state," said Kira. "If they're going to keep the storefronts and keep the integrity of the block, then I think we have to [approve the development.]"
The plan is still being finalized, and developer Copper Mill is still hearing feedback from the public.
WBZ NewsRadio's Madison Rogers (@MadisonWBZ) reports