|
To: Editor, The Daily Olympian Place Downtown Housing So It Doesn’t Harm Vistas Dear Editor, How often have you walked, bicycled, or driven downtown, and enjoyed the vista of water, the Olympic mountains, sailboats, and the clouds over the water? I imagine that anyone who lives or visits Olympia admires this beauty, and is refreshed by the waterfront view that we all share at the end of Budd Inlet. Yet, shockingly, a move is currently underway to rob this view from all citizens, and from future generations. Many people are probably unaware that the Olympia Planning Commission has recommended changes to the Comprehensive Plan that would allow five, six and seven story height condominiums to surround the downtown fountain. This shortsighted move would completely eliminate the view that we all enjoy. Imagine… no more vistas of the Olympics, the water, the distant sky for the public… all sacrificed for the private gain of a few developers, and those who could afford to purchase a condominium with a view. Imagine, visitors coming to Olympia, the state capital, and wondering how we could have been so completely foolish to zone away our common treasure. It is unthinkable! Housing is important, and surely could be allowed on property that doesn’t immediately close off the treasured downtown waterfront walking area, and the beautiful view. Let’s do the right thing for ourselves, for our children, and for sensible planning. I urge anyone who feels the same way to contact your City Council members, and to attend the public hearing on this issue on May 21st, at 7pm, at City Hall. |