You have another chance to save Sandy Creek Park and its incredible variety of wildlife and birds from the effects of an oversized development on adjoining property!
Last month, the Durham City Council delayed its decision on allowing a 4-5 story building, plus parking (together covering more than 80% of buildable land), to be built next to Sandy Creek Park. It asked the developer to address bird protection. The developer ignored NHBA’s recommendations on best practices for bird-safe building and lighting, and has promised only inadequate measures.
Next week, March 17, the Durham City Council will vote. Two council members missed the previous meeting. We hope they will agree with the Planning Commission’s decision not to support this development. Other council members may still be persuadable.
Act Now: Two Ways to Help
1) Contact City Council members before March 17 (email template and phone number below)
2) Join us at the March 17th meeting (City Hall, beginning 7:00 p.m.) to show support for the team of speakers planning to address the several reasons why this development is too large for such an environmentally-sensitive site.
Suggested email message:
TO: citycouncilonly@durhamnc.gov
SUBJECT: Please Vote No Rezoning Petition Z2400001, Pickett Rd. Apartments
- Thank you for listening to concerns about protecting Sandy Creek Park, a critical habitat in the City of Durham for birds and wildlife, and renowned nationally as a birding “Hot Spot.” More than 180 bird species have been identified by park visitors from all over the city, region, and beyond.
- Please follow the Planning Commission’s recommendation not to allow such a large development next to sensitive wetlands and already-impaired Sandy Creek.
- The developer’s proffer to “treat” windows is vague and ineffective. The developer’s plan also fails to prevent light trespass into critical breeding habitat for birds already threatened by habitat loss elsewhere.
- We support building more affordable housing in Durham, but this is the wrong site and size. Many apartments, constructed or planned in the vicinity, are closer to public transportation and sidewalks and do not threaten a rare wetland habitat and the wildlife it supports.
Or call: (919) 560-4396 to get in touch with the Durham City Council and voice your concerns.
