IN RENÉE Loth’s Feb. 26 op-ed column “What’s Vancouver got that we don’t?’’ there were three factors not sufficiently emphasized. First, Vancouver’s planning and development process is proactive, not reactive. Its city government creates the vision and framework and seeks development to execute it. Second, while the piece focused on development density, a better descriptive word for Vancouver’s success would be development intensity. Third, its housing policy emphasizes families with children.
Mayor Menino and the Boston Redevelopment Authority appear to be moving in a more proactive direction with the development study for the Greenway and waterfront. To some it may be taking longer than first contemplated; however, the sluggish development climate has given the BRA’s consultants time for community input and a thoughtful, thorough examination, helping to ensure a successful outcome for our precious downtown area.
Since 1959, I have worked as an architect and planner, and have lived in the waterfront area for more than 15 years. The life and activity Loth championed can only be successfully achieved with emphasis on more diversified housing, the creation of a first-rate neighborhood elementary school, and the long-awaited food market district. Density, height, and office and hotel use are not the answer for a more vibrant future for the waterfront and Greenway. As Loth points out, the success of Vancouver is the way Boston ought to go.
Samuel E. Mintz
Boston 
