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In response to townhouses on Duprey Street

To the editor:

I am one of those very concerned neighbors against the four two-story townhouses that Mr. Rabideau wants to build on a lot that is less than a half an acre in a neighborhood that has always been primarily single-family homes. Townhouses definitely do not fit here.

I grew up on Duprey Street. My grandparents were among the first residents on this street. I’ve lived here my entire life and have seen changes, growth and improvements, but I have not seen a project of this magnitude and size on a dead-end street that will change the character of the neighborhood permanently.

I, along with many of my neighbors, attended the Zoom meeting with the Development Board. The Rabideau Corporation representative talked about the lack of affordable housing in Saranac Lake. When he was questioned about where the current tenants would go when construction started, he had no answer, nor was there an answer about the cost of these townhouses. While the village definitely needs more affordable housing, this is not a suitable location for these townhouses. Since the plan is to sell the townhouses after construction, they would probably end up being rentals. With no green space, it is not a location that would attract families for long-term occupancy. The traffic is already over the top in the summer when the marina is open. If Mr. Rabideau really cares about our neighborhood and offering affordable housing, he should consider building two more one-story units, similar to the one he built in the back a few years ago, to replace the current residences that he wants to remove. The single-story units fit into the character of the neighborhood.

I do hope that the Development Board will look into townhouse development and how to address it. There needs to be space for the houses as well as spaces for parking. Also important is green space. If you look at the townhouses at Cranberry Meadow, you will see that they are on a much larger piece of property and have sufficient parking as well as green space for outdoor activities.

If my voice as a taxpayer and concerned resident counts, I say “NO” to townhouses on that small lot on Duprey Street.

Lorraine Kelley

A very concerned resident

Saranac Lake

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