I am writing about the favorite topic of late, The Belvedere at Thames development plan in Bristol. I have a little different perspective as I am not a native Bristolian. I came to Bristol …
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I am writing about the favorite topic of late, The Belvedere at Thames development plan in Bristol. I have a little different perspective as I am not a native Bristolian. I came to Bristol 20 years ago from mid-Michigan outside of the city of Detroit. My husband is a multi-generational Bristolian, as he grew up here, his father, his grandparents and his great-grandfather all lived here. He wanted his children to grow up in this town, as he did.
I was intrigued by this town as he drove me around and showed it to me, explaining the history along the way. I loved it. I loved the deep, rich history and the pride that was palpable. I tell him all of the time, how incredibly lucky he was to be able to grow up here.
Personally, I have no problem with development and growth. I do believe, however, that both should be monitored and nurtured in the direction that upholds the rich history of this town. The proposed modified development still does not do that.
It is still massively out of proportion for the corner it is proposed to be built on. The developer wants multiple variances outside of the guidelines for the historic district. If he wants to propose a development that falls within the guidelines of the historic district with no variances, that does not overpower the downtown area, then no problem.
This project is completely in favor of the developer and only the developer. Many people here seem to think that this building is going to provide prosperity and hundreds of jobs and affordable housing. Not sure why they think that. One pizza restaurant does not make hundreds of jobs or make it easier for lower-income people to live here, let alone those who grew up here to be able to stay here.
Progress solely for the sake of progress, without adhering to or preserving the historical significance of Bristol, is shameful, as my father used to say. I am embarrassed for those who claim to be from here who are in favor of this. These people seem to think that this development will solve all of the tax problems, job problems and affordable housing problems in Bristol. I cannot understand it. It is mind boggling the “power” of this one, single development.
I do hope and pray that the Planning Board, Historic District Commission and other town boards, will do the right thing and not approve this deceptively presented development.
Patricia Ferrick
21 Sandy Lane, Bristol