Location: Sakey Room, Main Library

October 8, 2002

Motion 1:

Whereas several of the alternative plans now proposed for the new library extend into the park area as described in paragraph 2.2 of the MCNA’s “Recommendations on Library Design and Open Space Related to The Main Branch Library Expansion/Renovation Project,” and most if not all of the members of the City’s Library Design Advisory Committee have made favorable comments about one of these plans: and

Whereas the grassed area south of the tennis courts and east of Trowbridge Street, including the trees that border it, together with the tennis courts, as designed by Carol Johnson in 1975, form an oasis of open space that is the heart of Joan Lorentz Park and is of exceptional value to residents of our build-up neighborhood and entire city: and

Whereas MCNA has concerns relative to increasing auto traffic in an already problematic parking situation; and

Whereas MCNA strongly feels that the existing, historically significant original library building should be preserved;

The MCNA recommends:

That this heart of Joan Lorentz Park be considered as an area of special concern and preserved in its present form, including a row of trees that delineate it from the library and its lawn, three tennis, and no parking ramps, garage exits, or vent shafts; and

That the City Administration instruct the design team to reevaluate and further develop at least one option that preserves the heart of Joan Lorentz Park in tits present form; and

That all members of the City’s Library Design Advisory Committee give full weight to the value of the heart of Joan Lorentz Park in their future deliberations; and

That no schemes be considered that would either increase the number of cars parked in the neighborhood or encourage more auto traffic to the library; and

That, as a design principle, the original library building exterior and interior be preserved and used.

Votes:
For: 25
Against: 10
Abstain: 4
Motion passed


Motion 2:

The Mid Cambridge Neighborhood Association has three serious concerns which we feel have not been adequately addressed by library planners to date:
1) the impact of increased traffic and parking
2) the preservation of the character of various open spaces
and 3) the preservation and continued public use of the historic library building.
While we recognize that resolution of these issues will be developed over time, we urge those responsible for planning to continue to consult with the neighborhood and respect these concerns throughout planning and decision making.

Votes:
For: 31
Against: 0
Abstain: 1
Motion passed


Motion 3:

That the MCNA express its appreciation of the benefits a greatly improved library will bring.

Votes:
For: 25
Against: 0
Abstain: 9
Motion passed