HomeMy WebLinkAboutPublic Comment from H Kanchev2/13/2026
Dear Members of the Board,
I am writing as the property owner across from 11 Potter Ave in Hyannis regarding the hearing on the proposal to
increase the previously approved new units development and the related rise in the number of parking spaces.
I recognize and support the Town’s efforts to address housing needs in Hyannis and the broader Barnstable
community. Thoughtful residential growth is important. My concern is specific to whether Potter Avenue, given its
physical constraints and current operating conditions, can safely accommodate additional density beyond what has
already been approved.
Roadway Capacity and Pedestrian Safety
Potter Avenue is a narrow residential street originally designed to serve primarily single -family homes. It lacks
sidewalks, has limited effective roadway width, and frequently requires vehicles traveling in opposite directions to
slow significantly or stop to pass safely. Pedestrians, including families walking to and from Main Street, share the
roadway with vehicle traffic.
Based on years of daily firsthand observation as an abutter, the street already functions near its practical capacity.
Even incremental increases in vehicle trips—including resident vehicles, visitors, deliveries, and service traffic —can
materially affect safety and access conditions on constrained roadways such as this one.
For comparison, nearby Stevens Street — which has accommodated multifamily development — has standard lane
widths, sidewalks, and clearer traffic delineation. Potter Avenue does not offer those same design features or
capacity.
Parking Spillover and Seasonal Conditions
The existing multifamily property at 17 Potter Avenue provides a relevant example of how limited on -site parking can
result in regular on-street parking and driveway access constraints. During winter months, snow storage and plowing
operations further reduce usable roadway width, compounding these challenges. On several occasions I've
witnessed through the years snow being dumped from that parking lot onto our lawn.
Any assessment of additional units should account not only for projected trip generation, but also for real -world
parking behavior, emergency access considerations, and seasonal roadway limitations.
Related past safety requests
About five years ago, while Potter Ave was undergoing repaving, I personally provided the Barnstable Department of
Public Works with a folder containing a petition requesting additional safety measures —such as speed limit signs,
parking signs, and painted lane lines—to be added after the project's completion. I also personally presented a
written statement explaining why clearly marked side lines and a median were necessary; however, these requests
seem to have been disregarded.
Main Street Intersection Constraints
Potter Avenue’s intersection with Main Street already operates as a narrow bottleneck. The subject property is
located near this constrained entrance. Increased turning movements and traffic volume in this location may
introduce additional safety concerns that warrant careful evaluation.
Request for Careful Review
I respectfully request that the Board consider whether the proposed increase of units is consistent with the existing
roadway design, pedestrian conditions, and overall public safety obligations. Four units already represent a significant
increase in density for this property size and street context. Expanding it to more units may exceed what the current
infrastructure can safely and reasonably support without additional mitigation.
Should the Board be inclined to approve the expansion, I would respectfully ask that appropriate traffic, parking, and
safety impacts be formally evaluated during peak season and addressed to ensure compatibility with the surrounding
residential environment.
Thank you for your time and thoughtful consideration of neighborhood input.
Sincerely,
Hristo Kanchev
24 Potter Ave, Hyannis, MA 02601