A group representing local, independent groups spoke to the Town Council on Tuesday and asked them to consider adopting measures to support local businesses, but their request was denied.
Members of Watertown-Belmont Local First include locally-owned businesses and while the group is modeled on other similar groups, spokeswoman Rena Baskin said the group is independent. Continue reading
The Town Council opened the way for a multi-story hotel to be built in town, but only in a small area on the east side of town on Arsenal Street by unanimously voting to change a town zoning ordinance.
The change of the zoning ordinance allows a hotel of up to 79 feet and seven stories tall, and it will be limited to the Industrial 1 (I-1) Zone. The Council also considered extending the changes in the zoning to I-2 and I-3 zones. One such hotel  has been proposed at the former Charles River Saab site which is in the I-1 zone.
{Originally sent to Watertown News email list page on Feb. 7}
A mock up of what the residential building will look like on Arsenal Street. Photo: The Hanover Company.
By Charlie Breitrose
Developers of the site along Arsenal Street met with residents Thursday night and they heard about Watertowner’s concerns – including increased traffic, loss of the possibility a path through the area and trees.
The proposed development would have a four-story apartment complex with 297 units (202 one-bedroom, 89 two-bedroom and 6 three-bedroom), a 30,600 square foot store – likely a market, and 6,777 square feet for boutique stores and a restaurant. The land is owned by Cresset Development. Hanover Company will build the residential complex, while WS Development will build the market. Cube 3 Studio are the architects.
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