The large vacant lot on King Street is full of possibilities. The property abuts two densely populated neighborhoods, three regional rail trails, a wide range of retail options and it is easily accessible to downtown. This stretch of King Street is part the Central Business-Gateway District. This district is intended to provide a streetscape that is welcoming, safe and attractive to all users. Mixed-use residential and commercial properties can be found just across the street.

Any development on this vacant lot should build upon what is already nearby. It needs to be comfortable, interesting and useful.Right now there is a need to remind city officials that the Sustainable Northampton Comprehensive Plan commits the city to being a model community for sustainable policies and practices. Current zoning doesn’t go far enough to protect the goals of the Gateway District. A large automobile dealership could occupy the entire lot if it is granted a special permit from the Planning Board. For this reason, a group of citizens have petitioned the city to change the zoning to no longer allow automobile sales in the Gateway District.

Please attend the combined Planning Board and Legislative Matters meeting on Thursday April 11 at 7 p.m. in City Council Chambers and support the proposed zoning amendment to prohibit auto sales in the Gateway District. We need to ensure the city continues to meet its current and ongoing environmental, social and economic needs without compromising the future for succeeding generations.

Benjamin Spencer

Northampton