r/Somerville

I don't like to straw man positions but this is what I hear every time housing comes up. Whether it's the tower in davis, the new housing in Union, the old star market building, a new development near the community path, the refrain seems to be that all new housing is bad for the city and is going to bring in new people that will harm the city.

What separates new people that will cause damage and harm the city from existing residents that don't? If people hate their current / prospective neighbors already so much why do they live here?

Hi,

I've never lived in Boston and will be moving to Sommerville, close to Spring Hill and Winter Hill.

I'm very big on walks and was thinking of walking to my job- like 50min across the river close to Wellington T station. Is it a bad idea?

Is there a good pedestrian pass that I can use and is it safe for me to go through there in the early mornings and afternoons?

Otherwise I'll have to take the green line T to North Station or Haymarket and then back up with the orange line.

Also any ideas or help in my move or things to do are appreciated:)

So what’s going to be done about all the homeless people in Davis Square? This is ridiculous—doing drugs in broad daylight. Not even in my third-world, underdeveloped country do homeless people do this.

Hi! This is my first porchfest. I’ve heard it’s an iconic day for the community. What should I know? Where are the best porches/bands? Do people dress up in costumes?

I want to maximize my porchfest experience!

I’m a comedian based in LA now, but I grew up in New England and I’m always curious what the go‑to spots are when I’m back in the area.

What’s the best small venue you’ve seen a show at recently?
Could be a bar, a basement, a weird room — anything.

I love discovering places I’ve never heard of. Thanks!

Living in a three decker with a bathroom last renovated 50 years ago. Tile surround, cast iron tub, window in the tub, the usual. Turns out water has been getting in everywhere for years and it all needs to be ripped out and replaced.

Any recommendations for companies that will take it down to the studs, reframe the window, waterproof everything, and retile around the existing tub would be hugely appreciated—I’m trying to find an alternative to a prefab all in one that doesn’t vibe with the rest of the bathroom’s aesthetic….and that somehow doesn’t cost a large fortune. Thank you!

Hello! Moving to the area middle of June or so. I’m wondering who everyone uses for utilities and around how much they typically are? Leaving a place that has everything included :( so trying to see what to be expecting for new utility bills. Electric / gas / etc

Thanks in advance!

Unfortunately I will have to drive into Somerville Saturday afternoon and am stressed about how the roads will be. I'll be getting back to my apt in union square around 2/3pm. Is every street gonna be jam packed with people? Any areas to avoid via car all together? Should I just park my car in a different neighborhood and walk a few miles to my place ? This is my first time in the neighborhood for porch fest so no clue what it's like but after reading the threads it seems driving is a no no but I'll have to get back to my apartment lol

I'm hosting a small birthday lunch at a restaurant near the Davis Square area on Saturday the 9th at 1pm. Wondering how much I'm asking of guests as far as getting there goes, they're coming from all over Boston. Is the red line to Davis Square going to be terribly packed/delayed? I know streets will be closed down, but could you take an uber to somewhere near there and then walk? Or would you all recommend to move the location to somewhere else in Boston to get away from Porchfest entirely. Thanks

What on earth is the screaming cheering about?

I've read a few different posts from the past about the owner, his property manager, former disputes, etc.

Anyone know how I might get in touch with these folks and try to change their mind, and let someone (me!) finally open a business that would serve the community? Looking to do Food & Beverage there, in my early 30s and have lived in Somerville for 12 years.