Density seems to be the biggest objection that members of the town board have to the private development proposal of the Courtesy Hotel site. I find this objection rooted in misunderstanding, especially considering that the town's studies show more positive impacts and no negative impacts from the highest densities considered. It seems they are afraid of setting a precedent that will result in overdevelopment and threat to suburban lifestyle. "We are committed to preserving the suburban character of our neighborhoods," said Supervisor Kate Murray.

Yet, targeted areas of high density are what we need to combat continued sprawl, subdivision, and illegal rentals. Sprawl is development that is dispersed, requiring the use of cars to get around and making it impossible to walk to your daily needs. There is a growing general awareness that low-density residential development threatens open space, raises public service costs, encourages people and wealth to leave, creates serious traffic congestion, and degrades the environment and our quality of life (see http://www.newurbanism.org/sustainability.html).

High density in strategic locations is what Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) is all about (http://www.transitorienteddevelopment.org). Having many people in walking distance to transit encourages its use and creates less dependence on automobiles. These higher densities also create an economic demand for amenities in walking distance , encouraging vibrant, walkable business districts with interesting shops and restaurants while preserving a neighborhood feel. This brings in revenue and creates a sense of community.

The area around the West Hempstead LIRR station is unique and it is a prime location for Transit Oriented Development. Rezoning this site to a high density TOD would not cause overdevelopment throughout the town because there are few, if any, other sites that fit the requirements of TOD zoning.

Obviously, improving the area should not stop at the Courtesy Hotel site, but the only way to transform the area and make these improvements sustainable is by creating a strategic density of people around the train station who will live, care, shop, ride, and pay taxes. Any plan to revitalize the area should consider the benefits of TOD and higher residential density.

This is smart, balanced, and controlled growth. Creating strategic areas of high density can provide much needed housing, improve economy, and improve quality of life at the same time as promoting a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly lifestyle. This does not take away from existing low density developments, but preserves and enhances them.

Supervisor Murray seems to agree that we need smart growth as she continues her statement "We embrace balanced growth to accommodate young families and seniors who want to live here. Hempstead is also redeveloping downtowns to keep business districts vibrant and guard against urban decay."

I hope that Supervisor Murray and the Town of Hempstead Board recognize that high density is not the enemy of the suburban lifestyle, but rather a solution to many of its problems.

Nicola Vitale

West Hempstead