 Good evening. My name is Barbara Thornton, Precinct 16, 223 Park Avenue. I'm here this evening to talk about Article 81, the Design Competition Resolution. The Select Board recently voted favorable action for Article 81, a resolution intended to arrange a design competition in the East Arlington area, building on the work done in 2019 by the MIT Broadway Corridor Study and enhanced by the governor's recent law, stipulating rewards for greater density in areas near transit stations such as AOI station. This design competition effort, called on the voluntary participation of architects, designers and planners in the region, can help give the residents of Arlington alternative visions of what that neighborhood might look like in 20 years with attributes fostering open space, greenery, sustainability, density, walkability and transit alternatives. The concept builds on the community's interest in sustainability and energy efficiency in housing diversity and in affordability and in preservation of open space and natural features, all in the face of climate change and population growth. Key attributes for success in creating a strong neighborhood include economic opportunities, such as proximity to work opportunities, including access to AOI station and nearby Cambridge and Route 2 offices. High quality living, including daylight, access for buildings, walkable streets and pathways, mixed use, micro units, vibrant public spaces, organic food and fitness opportunities, all contribute to a healthy living environment for the neighborhood. Sustainability is another key goal for success. That includes comfortable work and play, living spaces, resource efficiency, micro grids, net zero building, preservation of the natural environment and geological features. The Green Street project developed in Queens captured 30,000 gallons of stormwater runoff after Hurricane Irene. Much smaller street tree swales absorb 3,000 gallons of stormwater at a time. Studies show that people living in neighborhoods with higher walkability scores weigh 6 to 10 pounds less than those in more sprawling neighborhoods. We need to spend less attention on cars and more on people. Please do vote for and support the development of this design competition. Let's make East Arlington an innovation district for good design ideas that can be used across the town. Thank you.