I have to take exception to your editorial (Zoning should start to look up, 03/30/2009). I applaud your efforts to encourage affordable housing, but unfortunately, all new buildings are more expensive than old ones — even very tall new buildings.
Adding eco-friendly elements only adds to the cost that is passed on to residents in the form of higher rent. Tall buildings would blight the Ann Arbor landscape, especially since students are a transient population and don’t have a vested interest in the property.
You have too easily bought into the arguments of developers who are already making a lot of money off the few high-density buildings in the city. If Ann Arbor is to attract and retain new residents, it needs to focus on what makes it livable for all groups, not just students who are here today and gone tomorrow.
Susan Wineberg
Staff