The Kittredge estate holds a unique place in Leverett’s history — a nearly 80-acre property whose next chapter deeply respects the character, values and “vibe of Leverett” and its neighbor Amherst. As someone who has spent decades creating projects that enhance both the economy and community life, I am committed to ensuring that any development at this site not only serves its residents but also preserves yet strengthens the social fabric of the region.

The gratitude to the residents of Leverett and Amherst for their engagement and thoughtful feedback throughout this process is deeply felt. While there has been a warm welcome from many residents and some in the local news media, it is clear that this project has sparked passionate discussions about the future of our communities. This dialogue is invaluable, and we welcome the opportunity to address concerns while highlighting the benefits this project will bring.

The transformation into a 55-plus community is a carefully considered response to community meetings held last year as well as throughout 2024, and Leverett’s sentiment that young families may cause impact on the local schools and roads. We agreed and pivoted to housing for seniors, mitigating many of these concerns. Massachusetts ranks 50 out of the 50 states as the nation’s worst for elder economic security which is largely due to high housing costs, and 25% of the units at Juggler Meadow will be deemed affordable. By 2030, seniors will make up 21% of the population.

Upon the change, we received hundreds of DMs and emails of residents urging us to push forward; as one prominent Leverett resident put it, “please move this past some of our folks that complain about everything, are always the loudest talking at every meeting and because of which, things take much longer and we end up nowhere or without what we need. Many are scared to speak up because of it.” They added, “then the next minute they’re asking for more affordable housing.”

Our proposal proportionately reflects these needs, creating a 55-plus community that allows older residents to downsize, freeing up family homes for younger generations while respecting Leverett’s natural beauty and rural character.

But this project is about more than housing. It is about enriching the lives of residents and enhancing the economic stability of the area:

Significant tax revenue: Leverett’s annual operating budget is approximately $7.2 million, and small towns like Leverett often face budget pressures. Pioneer Pointe will add substantial property tax revenue, strengthening the town’s ability to fund schools, public safety, and infrastructure without increasing taxes for existing residents. We have been told Leverett would like a new senior center, fire vehicles and other expanded services. Some would also like to see the budget allow for the town to hire officials to support the various boards that are made up of volunteer members.

Economic and social vibrancy: A 55-plus community brings long-term, stable residents who contribute to civic life and local businesses. These residents are deeply invested in the community’s success, helping to sustain the unique vibrancy of Leverett and Amherst.

Balanced growth: By scaling back density, situating the majority of the development in Amherst, and preserving open spaces, the project is designed to harmonize with the region’s small-town feel and natural beauty.

As per my role and qualification as development manager, this does not make me personally the eventual master developer. I manage the genesis and processes, and some of the world’s most respected companies have put their faith in me. My job is to work, as I have for nearly two years with the Kittredge family, on a vision and to assemble an extremely qualified team: SEB Housing, Callahan Construction and the talents of planner Chris Ritter, among others. We, together, have 70 years of experience with 40Bs and affordable housing projects in the commonwealth. Residents and officials alike are always able to reach me, and I have been and will be consistently available to all 24/7/365.

Equally important is our commitment to listening and feeling the sentiments of the community. The initial proposal has been scaled back significantly in direct response to stakeholder feedback. Density has been reduced by more than half, using all available land in Amherst and less than 10 acres pitching into Leverett.

Together, we can repurpose and adaptively reuse the Kittredge estate by turning it into a source of hope and opportunity and create new and affordable homes for seniors who want to be part of this community. The only reasonable path is forward.

Joshua Wallack is development manager of Pioneer Pointe at Juggler Meadow, a 55-plus active adult community proposed at the Kittredge estate.