I have enjoyed Portland’s many trails and parks since I could walk. We are privileged to live in a city where 95% of residents live within a 10-minute walk of a park, according to the Trust for Public Land, vastly exceeding the national average of 57%.

That’s why I was so concerned when I heard the details of the major site development proposal directly adjacent to the Presumpscot River Preserve, on the 0 Hope Ave. parcel. Portland needs housing and I cheered on a major affordable housing development across the street from me on the West End over the last two years, but the Presumpscot proposal raised too many issues.

In addition to questions about the developer, the proposed site carries a heightened risk of landslide, has poorly draining soils unsuitable for development, fragile wetlands and streams, and stormwater overflow could damage the Presumpscot River. Recently, state geologists released guidance that would require over 50 boring sites be surveyed on the land prior to permit approval.

Fortunately, the 0 Hope Ave. parcel recently went into foreclosure, and is planned to be sold by the Keenan Auction Co. on Aug. 15. While we’re out of the woods with the previous development proposal, I hope local conservationists will consider purchasing this land and adding it to the preserve so it can be enjoyed for generations to come. At the very least, any interested developers should become well acquainted with the myriad ecological issues with this land before casting a bid.

Simon Thompson
Portland