To the editor of Watertown News.
There is clearly a profound shortage of affordable housing nationwide and here in Watertown. At the same time there is a huge number of empty storefronts everywhere.
What is being done to convert at least al portion of those vacant commercial properties into residences? It seems an obvious solution — most storefronts are in areas served by mass transit so would suit individuals or families who can’t afford or don’t want cars.
Wouldn’t landlords rather get some rent as opposed to none? What is being done to make this happen? By converting existing buildings to homes we could also preserve the dwindling green space we have.
Barbara Darrow
Watertown resident