The main presentation was delivered by representatives from the Metro West Collaborative Development Group, who outlined the details of the Five Auburn Street redevelopment plan. The project is designed to offer affordable rental units to households earning between 30% and 60% of the area median income. The development is intended to preserve the historic Elliot School building and introduce new construction that aligns with sustainability goals, including energy efficiency improvements and passive house certification.

During the meeting, the project was described as a “once in a generation opportunity” to preserve a historic community resource while addressing the need for affordable housing. The proposal includes maintaining open space at the site and enhancing accessibility in both the renovated school building and the new structures. Despite these assurances, the project has faced criticism from local residents, who have voiced concerns about density, design, and the potential impact on traffic and safety.

Residents like Mark Bugden and Roger Scott expressed their apprehensions about the project’s scale and its suitability for a small, dead-end street consisting of just four houses. Bugden highlighted the potential for increased traffic congestion and difficulties for emergency vehicles accessing the area, stating that “there’s one way in, one way out.” Scott echoed these concerns, advocating for a limit of 15 units to maintain manageable access and ensure the safety of both current and future residents.

Further complicating matters, Rose Coman criticized the proposal for not aligning with the village character of South Natick and pointed out that the site is located within an important wildlife corridor along the Charles River. She questioned whether the project truly serves community interests. Coman also referenced claims that select board members felt pressured to support the affordable housing option, an assertion that prompted calls for further investigation.

Traffic concerns were a recurring theme throughout the meeting. Dan Weddle and other residents stressed the need for comprehensive traffic studies to address the potential increase in congestion resulting from the new development. Weddle emphasized that current traffic data may not adequately reflect the reality during peak hours and called for additional measures to manage traffic flow, particularly at key intersections.

The discussion also touched on environmental considerations, with questions about the impact of the proposed development on local water table conditions and stormwater management. One resident recounted personal experiences with flooding and inquired about the project’s construction plans, particularly whether the building would have a basement or be built on a slab. The board confirmed that the new building would be constructed on a slab, and soil conditions would be discussed in future hearings.

Despite the concerns raised, some speakers advocated for the project’s benefits, emphasizing the need for affordable housing in Natick. Ganish Ram Chandran, chair of the Natick Affordable Housing Trust, highlighted the financial burden faced by many local households and argued that the development could provide much-needed relief. He pointed to the project’s strategic location near essential amenities and framed it as a step toward addressing historical housing discrimination.