Tall buildings for Lake Stevens project will block mountain views

I have read of a proposal to add buildings and parking at a site on 20th Street NE in Lake Stevens, after removing the current coffee shop at the same location. I share great concern over the height of these buildings.

These buildings would not only exceed the height of all surrounding structures, but they would also obstruct the cherished views of the forest and mountains that are a defining feature of our community.

The natural landscape plays a vital role in our quality of life, offering a sense of connection to the natural world. The construction of these buildings threatens to erase that benefit for all of Lake Stevens whose views will be permanently blocked.

Moreover, the height and scale of the proposed development are out of character with the existing neighborhood. Such disproportionate structures would harm the architectural harmony of the area and potentially set a precedent for further overdevelopment.

Already the majestic view of the mountain range was lost when the buildings were built off Soper Hill. It was profoundly sad to see yet another tall building that replaced the stunning view of the mountains.

Is it Lake Stevens’ goal to remove every amazing view of the incredible surrounding nature? A four-story high building in the heart of Lake Stevens is an eyesore no one wants. I support growth in my city, but growth that should not compete with the neighboring natural areas, and should, instead, complement it.

We are not Seattle. We are Lake Stevens! Our city is adorned by a lake, forest and snow covered mountains. We have a history of celebrating that relationship.

I urge reconsideration or revision of the project in a way that respects the existing community character and preserves our access to the natural beauty that surrounds us.

Maria Daly

Lake Stevens

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Wednesday, Oct. 29

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

2024 Presidential Election Day Symbolic Elements.
Editorial: A recap of Herald Editorial Board endorsements

By The Herald Editorial Board Voters, open up your ballots and voters… Continue reading

Welch: Why is our foot on the gas when the wheel is broken?

State and local governments continue to raise taxes without delivering on promises. How do we fix this?

State’s highway maintenance still on ‘glidepath to failure’

Thank you for reprinting Jerry Cornfield’s article from the Washington State Standard… Continue reading

No Kings protests need a unifying slogan

I participated in the “No Kings” rally at Edmonds Municipal Park this… Continue reading

Tall buildings for Lake Stevens project will block mountain views

I have read of a proposal to add buildings and parking at… Continue reading

Schrager: Can America afford to reopen the goverment?

A deal in Congress that restores health care subsidies would add $350 billion over a decade to the debt.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Tuesday, Oct. 28

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

toon
Editorial cartoons for Monday, Oct. 27

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Comment: Blame ICE raids, visa limits for higher food prices

President Trump’s immigration policies are making it harder for farmers to harvest crops affordably.

Goldberg: Trump’s flinging of AI feces misses target, debases himself

Trump’s reposting of juvenile AI video seems a defensive reaction to those who won’t bow down to him.

Policies can promote compassion, unity

Loving as a nation Policies can spread compassion Martin Luther King taught… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.