HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Comment from Noreen Browne
Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod, Inc.
411 Main Street Suite 6 • Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 • 508-362-3559
www.habitatcapecod.org
August 12, 2025
Jacob Dewey, Chair Zoning Board of Appeals Barnstable Town Hall 367 Main Street Hyannis, MA 02601
RE: Wilkens Lane – Phase II
On behalf of Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod, I am writing to express our strong support for
Phase II of the Wilkens Lane housing project that will offer much needed workforce and affordable
housing opportunities on Cape Cod. By creating more housing units, the Wilkens Lane project will
enable workers to live closer to their jobs and foster a healthier more vibrant local economy.
Across our region, the gap between wages and housing costs has grown to unsustainable levels. Far too
many residents are forced to make impossible choices between paying rent and meeting other essential
needs such as food, healthcare, and transportation. When people have access to affordable housing, they
are better able to contribute to the local economy, participate in community activities, and develop long-
term connections with neighbors. It ensures that teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, and
service providers can live in the communities they serve.
Unfortunately, the demand for affordable housing across the Cape far outpaces the supply. Rising housing
costs are pushing working families, seniors, and essential workers farther from their jobs and support
networks. Without projects like Wilkens Lane, these trends will continue to deepen the divide and limit
economic growth.
Habitat for Humanity has been building affordable homes in partnership with families for 38 years on
Cape Cod creating pathways to stability and independence. We know that affordable housing works and
that it is possible when community leaders, nonprofits, and the private sector come together.
Housing is more than shelter; it is the foundation for healthy families and thriving communities. Together,
we can ensure that everyone on Cape Cod has a decent place to live.
Sincerely,
Wendy J. Cullinan
Wendy J. Cullinan
President and CEO
Habitat for Humanity of Cape Cod