I think it sounds like a good plan. I understand the "not in my backyard" feelings of homeowners, but with the college right across the street, people would have to expect having students for neighbors, right?
My opinion is influenced by the fact that I live sort of close to the colleges -- sort of close. When I bought the place 13 years ago, I never would have imagined student rentals up and down my street, but things are going in that direction. I think it makes more sense to have students living right across the street from the school.

I think from an epidemiological standpoint, it may prove to be a moderate disaster; but economically, it may also stimulate some short term jobs, and be a good long term investment for this development company (whom I unfortunately have little economic relation to).  

As far as reducing the amount of students living in east side neighborhoods, this would put a minor dent in the number of rental properties..but maybe a good start (?). Personally, I just keep the channel of neighborly friendliness open, and either share a toddy with my younger neighbors, or ignore them when I don't feel like it...so my perspective is a bit skewed from a family person or those up in the years. 

I do, though, suspect that a lot of the attitude of dismay towards college kids in the hood may be fueled by a fear of change ('kids these days..'); intolerance and misunderstanding; urbanization and its negative effect on group dynamics; and simply enough, a lack of effort in surveying a potentially liveable neighborhood before (more or less) cementing your bottom to it with a mortgage. For example, when I get sick of my fairly loud neighbors (whom I now just chuckle at now), my intentions will definitely be to acquire 60 acres in the woods, where developments won't get me in this lifetime..


++ for use of 'paucity' & 'bars' in the same sentence, E..

The Big E, we could definitely use a couple of bars over here on the East end. duluth_bishop, totally agree with you about Lambert's lack of design creativity. None of the buildings he's built look all that great.

I'd love to see the retail that's going to be included in this development be locally owned. I believe strongly in buying local. And I am all for a college strip there. I'd rather college students walk to bars and other places to hang out and party, rather than drinking and driving.

"west side of 21st Avenue..." 21st Ave. E or 21st Ave. W? Just to be clear.

B-Man, abso-fuckin-lutely. If there was any bar near campus, it would turn into one of the busiest in town. The only options for students are at Fitger's, downtown, in Canal Park, or my personal favorite, the OP. Don't get me wrong, I love the OP, but that is a looong walk back down to my place in Upper Chester.