To the editor:

Growth. This is the mantra of the real estate developers. And why not? The developers all have a vested interest in growth: increased profits.

Does the rank-and-file benefit? I don’t believe so. As for me and many other Lawrencians, unchecked growth will only bring a decreased sense of community, increased traffic, a plethora of tract housing for bedroom commuters and further encroachment on the rural country side.

I would dread having Lawrence be transformed into another anonymous urban area, ringed by more highways, glutted with more “big box” stores and devoid of accessible green space. Let’s keep Lawrence special, not redundant.

Kevin Hawker, Lawrence