The storefront looks worse than it really is. According to a local contractor who specializes in historic buildings, the windows mostly need scraping, putty and paint, and a little wood epoxy in a few places. A couple of the small panes in the upper transom area are cracked and need to be replaced. The plywood panels below the windows are in very poor condition; it is simple and inexpensive and replace them.
The owners also want better energy efficiency. To many people’s surprise, top-notch energy efficiency does not require double-pane replacement windows. Mounting storm windows inside would give equal efficiency without hurting the appearance.
Here's What You Can Do
1. Sign Online Petition
Over 125 people have already signed the petition. We started the old-fashioned way--one signature at a time. Join them by signing the online version here.
2. Send an email to the Somerville Planning Board
If you want to keep the funky, historic character that makes Union Square different from everywhere else send an email and ask the Planning Board to not approve any Special Permit that would allow the loss of this historic façade. Send email comments to the Somerville Planning Board at planning@somervillema.gov
3. Attend the public hearing of the Somerville Planning Board on Thursday, August 6:00 p.m. at City Hall (93 Highland Ave) in the Aldermanic Chambers.
Attend the public hearing of the Somerville Planning Board. It may be our only chance to weigh in on this plan. Offer brief verbal comments to the Board. (If you plan to go, call 617-625-6600 ext 2500 that day to verify that this is on the agenda and the location has not changed.)