Complex good for Bloomington

Along with several other recent projects in the downtown area, Pavilion Properties has petitioned to build a four-story apartment complex at the corner of Seventh and Lincoln Streets, several blocks west of the IMU. While some think this adds more parking difficulties, the project is beneficial to Bloomington and IU for several reasons. Not only will the proximity to campus reduce the need for some residents to have cars, the project will also play a part in the revitalization of Bloomington's downtown. \nParking and driving close to campus is not an easy task. Parking is not readily available, and heavy traffic congestion on the roads running in close proximity to the campus is normal. \nIt is easy to understand opposition to the development. The complex will be able to hold 70 occupants. Street parking in the area will not be able to accommodate 70 more people. This will make parking in the area difficult for residents and people visiting the church across the street, the laundromat down the street and the dentist's office next door. But the goal of the project is not to deter people from coming downtown, but is meant to encourage the growth of the area. \nThis apartment building will bring students back to campus. Apartment complexes like University Commons may be able to hold a number of students and give all of them ample room for parking cars, but they also separate them from the IU campus.\nThe lines to get on the bus at 5 p.m. are ridiculously long, and parking around Kirkwood and the square proves to be a problem throughout the day and at night. If there is more housing built closer to the University, students will be able to walk to and from campus. Students will be more likely to come back to campus in the evening and at night for lectures, theatrical productions and to use the library. \nStudents will also be able to access downtown Bloomington without having to drive. They will be more likely to take advantage of the independent shops and restaurants in the downtown area. Places like the now-closed Classic Film and Music, which offered a wealth of independent and foreign films for rent, are what help to make Bloomington unique.\nWith the growth of student housing downtown, there will be a growth in the businesses and services offered there. Grocery stores and more shops will come, and Bloomington will begin to experience revitalization rather than the urban sprawl of strip malls and chain stores. \nWith the growth of technology, human interaction is not as necessary. Ordering on-line and home delivery make it so people can function entirely within their own home. Downtowns that are comprised of business and residential areas help to make a community smaller and unify people. With this apartment complex, downtown Bloomington will gro, and the residents of Bloomington and IU students will share a common place to work, meet and socialize. \nStaff vote: 7 - 0 - 2\nyes - no - abstain