City chooses developer for Powder House School site

[lizforalderman.livejournal.com]

Looks like a bid has been chosen for the Powder House School site.  Details in the city's press release:
http://www.somervillema.gov/news/powder-house-school-site-redevelopment-recommendation-accepted-mayor

I've read the proposal, and while there are some good design ideas that will open up, expand, and enhance the public outdoor spaces in the site, the building use will be focused on housing and commercial space, with only token concessions to SomerVision's priorities of arts and community oriented space. It's a far cry from the most exciting of the proposals, like the possible new home for Artisan's Asylum (I really hope they have other options they're considering and that this wasn't their only shot at staying in Somerville!).  But here's my big question: why is the city accepting a bid of only $2.7 million for a property that is valued at $7 million (and post-development will be potentially valued at more than $20 mil)?

Additionally, of the 40 housing units 7 will be designated affordable (a better proportion than at Assembly), and 12 units will be designed for aging-in-place, though I note that the degree of overlap of the affordable and senior housing is not stated.  Has anyone heard what the plan is in this regard?

That said, I'm glad the city is moving forward, as the most important thing is to get our vacant spaces into development before they become a public safety hazard, like certain Social Security buildings we all know.

(some more of my own thoughts on Facebook)