To the Editor:

As a home and business owner in the town of Guilderland, I ardently support the Crossgates hotel project for many reasons.

Here are just a few:

— This hotel project being proposed fits the neighborhood. A hotel will complement to the mixed-use, diverse character of Western Avenue. I feel it will set a high bar for future projects in that area;

— A new hotel will be a welcome new addition replacing current (ugly) vacant land;

— It makes sense to build here with access to Crossgates, the Northway, the University at Albany, and SUNY Poly;

— A new hotel at Crossgates Mall will also provide employment, and add tax revenue; and

— A new hotel will drive more business to our local entrepreneurs instead of taking it away.

I believe that we can retain the quality of life our town provides while embracing responsible development.

Thank you for allowing me to voice my support. This project is going to be a positive addition to our town.

Sal Merola

Guilderland

Editor’s note: Sal Merola owns Nu-Tek Business Products at  1971 Western Ave. in Guilderland and serves on the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.