Developer to Build Housing Complex Just Outside Melrose

A Braintree-based developer will purchase the 26-acre Weiss Farm property for a planned apartment complex with an affordable housing component, according to a report by The Stoneham Independent.

The farm is located at 170 Franklin St. - just a quarter mile over the town line - and could have implications for local traffic. 

The newspaper reportedly obtained a letter from Weiss Farm owner Donna Weiss to the community, stating that she has reached an agreement with John M. Corcoran and Company, of Braintree, to sell her parcel of land for a development that could include upwards of 300 apartment units.

"I have been holding on to the farm primarily to preserve and honor the Weiss family legacy; however, I find that I can no longer shoulder the ongoing cost, stress, uncertainty, and fears," Weiss wrote in the letter. "I have fought the temptation to sell the farm for years. My friends, family, and advisors have ultimately helped me to see that selling is the only realistic option.

"After five years of court fights and the prospect of further litigation with the Town and the state, I have decided to sell the farm."

Margaret Murphy, a spokeswoman for the developer, told the newspaper that no formal plans have been submitted to the town. It may take more than a year for the developer to finalize plans, according to the report.

The development may have up to 300 units and offer Chapter 40B units, which is affordable housing, according to the report.

For more information, see the Independent's full report.

What do you think? Are you worried about this new development on your morning commute?