Winn Companies' proposal for the Campbell Grain property (campbellgrain.com) suggests a best use for the blighted lot, but the design is visually tone-deaf. Using fiber cement and brick veneer siding in colors that mimic the grander buildings nearby cannot disguise the institutional bearing of this five-over-one apartment block. Google "beautiful mid-rise apartment buildings."

Winn gets kudos for proposing to build to strict Passive House PHIUS+ standards, the epitome of environmental sustainability for multifamily development worldwide. The design should reflect this accomplishment and show that Stonington and Pawcatuck are proud to have a such a forward-looking project. But if the building does not look the part and residents consider it an eyesore, that is a blot on both the town and the international Passive House movement.

In addition to reconsidering the design in light of its environmental progressiveness, funds should be set aside to enable the footbridge to Westerly and best design of the riverfront access. The project, if done well, will be a boon to Pawcatuck, the town, and the residents. If built to proposed specs, it will prove the fixed assessment to be a worthwhile investment in our community's future.

Thomas Mitchell

Stonington