I would like to encourage people to put a pause on their instinct that tall buildings are automatically bad and give the 30-story mixed-use building, proposed for Old Port Square, their full consideration.

This project will generate construction jobs for electricians, plumbers and many other workers. Its residents will help support downtown businesses and the people they employ. It will enable the creation of workforce housing units through the city’s inclusionary zoning provisions. The top will not be a billionaire’s penthouse but a restaurant and a publicly accessible observation area with a heck of a view. The site will not be threatened by rising sea levels!

But in terms of it being a tall building, I think it’s going to be a very positive addition to the Portland skyline. The building isn’t blocky but has a relatively slim design. It is partially rounded. It doesn’t have solid walls of glass or a blockhouse-like exterior, punctuated by long rows of bland windows. Compared to other buildings downtown, the façade is interestingly three- dimensional and open — allowing people to see into the building. The restaurant and observation area at the top are completely transparent and will be fun to both view out of and to look up at.

Although I live in South Portland, I care about our urban center, and I hope the community will not blow this chance to raise the level of architectural standards for all of Greater Portland.

Tex Haeuser
South Portland