BRATTLEBORO-I’ve become quite concerned about some of the misunderstandings that are circulating about Winston Prouty’s new, middle-income housing project. Two big misconceptions are keeping the project from garnering the full enthusiasm and support it needs and deserves.
1. Myth: “The housing being built at Winston Prouty is low income.” This housing is middle-income and focuses on attracting new businesses and young families as well as retaining retirees.
If our goal is to rejuvenate southern Vermont, we need places for professionals (doctors, nurses, technicians, support staff, business owners, et al.) to live, engage, and prosper. A 2021 housing study commissioned by the town of Brattleboro stated a “pressing need for over 500 housing units” in town — and that was five years ago!
These workers can’t be recruited to our area if we have nowhere for them to live; it’s not much more complicated than this. Where we put our resources and priorities is where we ultimately grow.
Yes, we need housing of all types, but to foster a truly successful community, we need a great many options for people intending to invest in, and grow, our town.
2. Myth: “This project is already fully funded.” Without community support in the form of financial donations (however big or small), this vital project will end up stalled or incomplete.
Though significant commitments have been made by the state and local supporters, we still lack critical funds that will allow for construction to begin next year.
If we acknowledge we succeed only through growth and available housing for all income levels, if we want more healthcare providers, restaurants, and other new businesses moving into and filling up Main Street, more tourists attracted to our beautiful town, we all must step up to solve this specific housing crisis we now face.
I’ve found an excellent summary at village.winstonprouty.org.
Understanding that the leadership at Winston Prouty is laying the foundation for the long-term prosperity of Brattleboro, we have an absolute obligation to donate what we can and to support this project loudly and vigorously.
I’ve done my part — can you?
Claudia Caine
Brattleboro
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