A supporter of Atlantic Fields in a recent letter to the editor was correct when he said that most of the opposition seems rooted in traffic worries. Much of the objection has cited the excessive traffic congestion that already exists. Granted, seasonal traffic is horrendous and often Route 1 becomes a virtual parking lot.
The commentary shrugs off the congestion as something many residents are familiar with and previously experienced in the places they moved from. This position is dismissive. Did the writer ever consider that transplants moved to this area to get away from the areas where they once lived, including the traffic?
The letter stated that Atlantic Fields “may bring a few additional visitors.” A few? May bring? Costco and the other proposed retailers do not invest in new locations due to a few additional visitors!
The letter writer equates growth to progress. These two concepts are not interchangeable, and neither is inevitable. The writer refers to the many developments that account for some 3,000 new homes (neighbors) that have been approved or are awaiting approval, like more residents are something to be feared. Those communities will bring jobs too. But unlike Atlantic Fields, the proposed new housing communities will infuse vital economic growth and prosperity into the area’s local establishments. Conversely, the majority of the profits generated by the companies in Atlantic Fields will leave the area once the construction of that shopping center has concluded.
Relative to the region’s growing healthcare needs, the letter writer said, “New doctors coming out of medical school can choose to live anywhere, and they tend to look for areas with convenience, amenities and lifestyle appeal.” It’s laughable to suggest that new doctors will reject an opportunity to work for one of the local hospitals or medical centers because there isn’t a Costco or Target in the area.
The closing thought, “We need Atlantic Fields,” is his opinion and not a fact. This area already has myriad amenities, dining and retail opportunities. Although it would be nice to have a Costco, Target, Dick’s and Whole Foods closer than they currently are, residents and visitors have and will continue to flock to this area, with or without Atlantic Fields.
Respectfully, I contend that progress is not inevitable. Nor do we need Atlantic Fields.
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