Reinvigorating Downtown

The following statement comes from H & R Development in Pullman:

I have sent you this e-mail in hopes that we would get additional opinion regarding a mixed-use project we have proposed for the South end of downtown. Please pass this info along to anyone who you believe is interested in the future of downtown. We believe this project will have a positive impact on the future of downtown!

We have requested a conditional use permit from the City of Pullman, Board of Adjustment to allow 1 residential unit for every 500SF of land. Without this conditional use permit only 1 unit for every 1000SF of land can be developed. We believe that a more dense downtown population base is an integral part for the continued health of downtown. We need to have a living, working and walking population base that can frequent, better stabilize and support downtown businesses.

The City of Pullman understands the benefits of this project and are in favor of granting this conditional use permit. However, neighbors have expressed concern regarding the parking, increase in density and overall quality of life. These are all valid concerns and have and will continue to address the concerns in the best manner possible. We believe the overall benefits of this project far outweigh the negatives and a delicate balance must be struck to address the concerns while not throwing out the project or making it infeasible with additional restriction and requirements.

Downtown projects such as the River Walk, Bridgeway Centre and Town Centre has inspired us to “buy” into downtown and continue the vision of creating a unique and vibrant downtown. Without the momentum created by these, it is doubtful that we would have invested into this vision. Our hope is that our project will keep the ball rolling and continue the revitalization of Downtown Pullman! Perhaps this project will inspire others to do the same.

Please help by showing your support by sending letter and testimony! The hearing is on February 12, 2007; 7:30PM and City Hall.

Letter or e-mails can be sent to Pete Dickinson, Planning Director:
325 SE High
pete.dickinson@pullman-wa.gov

If they can solve the parking issues and eliminate "party house" concerns, I think the Paradise mixed use project has the potential to really reinvigorate the look of the southern entrance into downtown Pullman. If you look at the map above, you will notice the area they are considering encompasses the Northwest Auto Parts store on the corner of Grand and Paradise, as well as the ramshackle apartment building behind the public parking lot next to the Pullman Grill and Bar.

If you feel the same, I encourage you to contact the city and express your support, either by letter or by testimony. I'm quite surprised that the advocates of "smart growth" in Pullman, including PARD, have not been more vocal in their support of this project.