A rally outside City Hall on April 15 marked a turning point in the debate over the future of the Santa Monica Airport (SMO) as a potential site for affordable housing. The Human Rights Watch Student Task Force (HRWSTF) club at Samohi has expressed support for the Cloverfield Commons group’s plan to convert half of the airport property into low-income and median-priced housing, citing its potential to address the city’s housing crisis.
According to Vivian Rothstein, co-founder of the Cloverfield Commons group, the proposed development would include a range of housing options, from very low income units to those available for limited equity ownership by descendants of displaced families. The plan aims to restore housing lost due to the construction of the I-10 freeway and the deconstruction of the Belmar neighborhood.
Residents who attended the rally shared their personal experiences with affordable housing shortages, highlighting the need for accessible options for city workers and others struggling with homelessness. Rene Buchanan, a formerly homeless citizen, emphasized the importance of addressing the issue, stating that building a “Great Park” would ignore the harsh realities faced by those in need.
Despite some groups opposing the plan, citing concerns about funding and job losses, proponents argue that finding creative solutions to address budgeting restraints is essential. The proposed development would involve a city-owned building with 3000 units, subject to specific restrictions and guidelines for use.
The debate surrounding SMO’s closure highlights conflicting views on the airport’s future. While some groups support preserving the airport, others advocate for its conversion into a park or housing complex. Charlie Cohen, president of the Aerospace Engineering club at Samohi, argues that closing the airport would result in job losses and compromise emergency landing sites, shifting traffic to already crowded airports.
The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for Santa Monica’s housing crisis and community development.
Source: https://smdp.com/uncategorized/samohi-students-take-sides-in-debate-over-airports-future