Dear Menlo Park City Council Members -
I am fully in support of building more housing--affordable and
otherwise--as close to downtown Menlo Park as possible. It just makes
sense! It is abhorrent to me what local shops and business owners are doing
to stop this effort.
I was born and raised in Palo Alto but have called Menlo Park home for 12
years, so I am well aware of the housing challenges the Peninsula faces. I
remember when Palo Alto built affordable and more dense housing downtown
many years ago. It caused a stir then, but look at the effects! Honestly,
they probably should have built even more. Downtown Palo Alto businesses
have faced no ill from increased/affordable housing, and more people get to
live near where they work and public transit. As long as there is a
sufficient parking plan that complements the housing plan, I dont
understand the lack of support.
We, as a community, should not vote for parking lots over people. I
envision a Menlo Park that is inclusive of all people, provides services
and resources for those in need, wants to diversify its residents, and is
forward-thinking in its planning. So many of the friends I grew up with
have moved away simply because of a lack of affordable housing. It breaks
my heart. Please do everything in your power to support more housing near
downtown.
Thanks,
Kristine Lyng
650-766-1223
kristinetangerine@gmail.com
646 Partridge Ave, Menlo Park, Ca
