SomerNova, support for the T, the housing-schools connection, and more

SomerNova Updates

Rafi Properties released a new and improved proposal for their SomerNova project this week. It includes 100 homes as well as a significantly reduced parking garage. We’d still like to see more housing and less parking — the roughly $100 million they’d be spending on underground parking could pay for a commuter rail stop — but it’s definitely a step in the right direction. We’ll be analyzing the proposal and preparing our detailed comments over the next couple of weeks. Discussion is ongoing on our messageboard. (Don’t have access? Reply to this message and ask for it!)

Help TransitMatters Influence the MBTA Capital Plan

The MBTA is preparing its 2025-2029 Capital Investment Plan, which sets infrastructure spending priorities for the rest of this decade. Our allies over at TransitMatters want to make sure the T will focus on the right priorities. Public comment must be submitted by May 16, so if you’d like to get on board, use this convenient pre-written letter template to send a custom message to Governor Healey.

Understanding How Housing Affects Schools

One common concern about new housing is that it might attract families with children, imposing new burdens on the local school system. But it can also increase the tax base and support school funding. Newton for Everyone is hosting a talk with Elise Rapoza from MassInc and Luc Schuster from Boston Indicators. Join them in-person or online, Thursday, May 30 at 7 pm, to learn more.

Other Upcoming Events

Slice of the City, Ward 7: Drop-in meet and greet with city officials at Lou Ann David Park, 1060 Broadway. Monday May 13, 5:00 to 7:00, in person.

West Broadway Redesign Outreach: How can we improve the western half of Broadway? Share your feedback on the West Broadway Reconstruction Concept Design. In-person at the corner of North St. and Broadway, drop in any time on Tuesday, May 14, 4:30 and 6:30. Or review materials and provide feedback online at any time.

520 Columbia/56 Webster Community Meeting: Initial meeting about a multi-building proposal for a mixed commercial and residential development with a small park. Tuesday May 14, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, online via Zoom.

Somerville Redevelopment Authority: The agenda includes both the 90 Washington site and the Winter Hill Redevelopment plan, so even if you’re not a regular SRA meeting attendee, this one is a pretty big deal. Tuesday May 14, 5:30 to 7:00 pm, online via Zoom.

Slice of the City, Ward 5: Drop-in meet and greet with city officials at Trum Field Playground, 1 Franey Rd. Thursday, May 16, 5:00 to 7:00 pm, in person.

Slice of the City, Ward 3: Drop-in meet and greet with city officials at Prospect Hill park, 68 Munroe St. Monday, May 20, 5:00 to 7:00 pm, in person.

YMCA Redevelopment Meeting: Informal meeting with Councilor Ewen-Campen to discuss plans for renovating and expanding the YMCA. Email [email protected] for the Zoom link. Monday, May 20, 6:30 to 8:00 pm.