LETTER TO THE EDITOR | First Street proposal is worth the loss of view

Editor, For over 30 years I have owned the Islandesign Building across First Street from Paul’s Village Pizzeria. My immediate concern with Dick Francisco’s proposed development was that his building would block my building’s view. Then I realized that with any substantial development some views will be blocked. Upon weighing the value of Francisco’s investing in Langley’s long term viability to my loss of view, I willingly contribute my building’s view.

Editor,

For over 30 years I have owned the Islandesign Building across First Street from Paul’s Village Pizzeria.

My immediate concern with Dick Francisco’s proposed development was that his building would block my building’s view. Then I realized that with any substantial development some views will be blocked. Upon weighing the value of Francisco’s investing in Langley’s long term viability to my loss of view, I willingly contribute my building’s view.

What has been discussed are two versions of a high-quality project boosting downtown Langley’s visitor drawing power. The intertwining of street-level retail with supporting restaurants and residential condominiums expands the reasons for selecting Langley as a destination.

Last week, I walked below street level along Seawall Park. One can easily envision the mass of the development below First Street. The ground floor structural requirements will be substantial. But the beauty of the design is three floors of the building, including one floor dedicated to parking, will be below First Street and out of sight of the town, yet a visual calling card for Langley from the marine view.

Proposed is a meaningful development requiring a substantial investment producing a township-wide long-term benefit. I acknowledge my building will lose some of its view, but I strongly believe my loss is necessary for Langley’s gain. I support Dick Francisco’s project.

LINDA LUNDGREN

Langley