96 New Units Proposed for 55 Lenox St!

The Norwood Planning Board is considering whether to issue a “special” permit for a developer to build another apartment complex at the former Norwood Tire site.

This discussion appeared on their agenda and is a continuation from their July 28th meeting. Included in their proposal, the developer has promised the town “Stormwater” and “Heat Island” bonus in order to squeeze more residents into the town. This proverbial carrot doesn't seem to be sitting well with neighbors.

One such resident, Steve Konetchy wrote a letter to the editor of The Norwood Record voicing his objection to the project. A major bone of contention for Konetchy is the lack of proposed parking. He argues 67 parking spots for 96 Units is simply not enough. The same argument was made recently for the lot next to Mr. Franks at 923-929 Washington Street. In contrast, that project was a marginal 26 unit with 41 parking spots: enough for every family to have at least one parking space. Developers in the Norwood Tire project, however appear to be betting on more public transportation residents than those who own their own vehicles. Or, more likely, want the town to bear the burden with on-street parking which is in short supply on Lenox St.

In any event, this project is just the most recent of many that have ignited fire under build-weary residents who believe they're being taken advantage of. The allure of tax incentives and carbon credits may not be enough to discourage opponents to the project.

The planning board meeting is scheduled for August 25, 2025 at 7pm at the Norwood Senior Center 275 Prospect St. -FC