Residents of Newton are expressing mixed feelings about a proposed development project on Needham Street, which aims to add 800 new housing units. During a recent Land Use Committee meeting, community members raised concerns about the project's impact on local traffic, parking, and environmental considerations.

One resident highlighted the inadequate on-site parking, noting that the original requirement of 3,087 spaces was significantly reduced to just 1,350. This reduction, they argued, could lead to increased congestion on Needham Street, which currently has only one travel lane in each direction. The resident also criticized the developer, Northland, for scaling back plans for underground parking, which was initially promoted as a way to mitigate heat islands on the site.

Another speaker, Sean Roach, acknowledged the loss of commercial office space but emphasized the need for market-rate housing to help lower overall housing costs in the area. He pointed out that the addition of new units could potentially drive down prices, benefiting the community. Roach also suggested implementing traffic measurement technology to better understand and manage the flow on Needham Street.

In addition to housing concerns, Roach proposed that the developer consider providing after-school care facilities, addressing a pressing need for working parents in the city.

As discussions continue, the committee will weigh the benefits of increased housing against the potential challenges posed by traffic and parking limitations. The outcome of this project could significantly shape the future of the Needham Street area and its surrounding neighborhoods.