Finding Balance in Urban Development: My Perspective on the Martin+Merritt Project in WeHo
Submitted by GREG WATSON
Martin & Merritt Community Meetings = 06/10
Open letter to Council Member Vo, Metro Planning, SomeraRoad, SNAP, WeHo Social, Wedgewood Houston Residents
As a relatively new resident to Wedgewood Houston (having moved here in May 2024), I feel compelled to share my thoughts on the ongoing discussions surrounding the Martin+Merritt development. This project represents more than just another construction site – it symbolizes the future direction of our rapidly evolving neighborhood.
Why I Chose WeHo
When I relocated from Chicago last year, I was immediately drawn to WeHo’s unique character – a true urban neighborhood with genuine community spirit. On my very first day here, I attended a block party where I met neighbors who had lived here anywhere from one day (me!) to over forty years. People of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life gathered, embodying the diverse fabric that makes this area special.
Now, almost a year later, my dog Luna and I regularly exchange smiles and greetings with familiar faces during our walks. The neighborhood’s emerging downtown scene – with many new exciting additions on the way like Ingrassia Deli, Pastis, Aba and Fishmonger – provides exactly the vibrant, walkable urban environment I was seeking.
Why I support Martin+Merritt
After attending multiple community meetings, including Council Member Vo’s April 7th gathering, SNAP’s July '24 meeting and several WeHo social events – plus reading every letter submitted to planning – I’ve developed an informed perspective on the proposed development.
Three key factors drive my support for Martin+Merritt:
Thoughtful Design and Integration: The project will transform a barbed wire surrounded former trailer park (currently an eyesore and safety concern) into a multifunctional development with a boutique hotel, restaurant, retail, residences and public green space area.
Sustainable support for Local Business: For our neighborhood’s small businesses to thrive, they need sufficient foot traffic. Increased density and tourism dollars from this development will help sustain the walkable amenities we all desire.
Infrastructure Improvements: SomeraRoad has committed substantial investment to upgrade existing infrastructure, including:
Adding sidewalks and landscaping around the project in addition to a landscaped public park area (we need to keep some green space!)
Extending sidewalks along Hamilton to Hagan and Pillow
Widening both Merritt and Martin streets
Improving sewage infrastructure to prevent existing flooding issues
These improvements address critical safety concerns, particularly along Martin Street where continuous sidewalks are currently absent – creating dangerous conditions for pedestrians.
Community Engagement Concerns
While I appreciate the passion on all sides of this discussion, I’ve observed concerning patterns on how the conversation has unfolded:
Association Politics: Some have dismissed WeHo Social as “not a real neighborhood group” despite their diverse meeting topics covering local businesses, ballot initiatives, security and other developments.
Imbalanced Decision Weight: While those living closest to the development deserve to have their specific concerns addressed, expecting unanimous consent is unrealistic for any urban project.
Quantifying Support: Based on public records and meeting attendance, support for the project appears to substantially outweigh opposition:
43 unique individuals sending letters of support vs 21 unique individuals sending letters opposing
At council Member Vo’s April 7th meeting, 20 people verbally supported the project while four expressed opposition.
Path Forward
I urge all parties involved to not let perfect be the enemy of the good. While no development project is flawless, we should consider what’s before us compared to the alternative: potentially 5+ years with a barbed wire eyesore in our neighborhood center.
Moving forward, I’d like to see:
Council Member Vo transparently share which aspects of the proposal she supports and what areas of concern remain
An open forum where SomeraRoad can present how the project has evolved to specifically address community feedback
Public quantification of neighborhood support levels being used in decision making
Most importantly, I encourage all neighbors to engage with all community associations and share their perspectives. Our neighborhood thrives when all voices contribute to thoughtful, balanced growth.
Profile: Greg Watson is a WeHo resident living on Moore Avenue who believes in collaborative community development that respects both tradition and progress.
