Lynn mulls demolition of Boston St. businesses

LYNN – A portion of Boston Street could have a whole new look if a plan to demolish Ernie’s Harvest Time, Over Easy Restaurant and Happy Valley Automotive is approved.Inspectional Services Director Michael Donovan confirmed that plans were submitted to his department that include tearing down three longtime businesses to make way for a pharmacy.”The plans are to demolish those three structures and a house in the back,” Donovan said.He said the plans have been circulated to about five city departments for review and to weigh in if there are concerns, which is typical, and a site plan review has been set for Thursday Nov. 8.”There may or may not be changes that need to be made but after that process a letter will go to the City Council,” Donovan explained.The developer, Tropical Star Development out of Hampton, New Hampshire, which could not be reached for comment, will need a special permit because the area is zoned for light industrial, Donovan said.”That whole area is zoned light industrial because there used to shoe factories there years ago, and we haven’t changed the zoning since the 1950s,” he added. “In a light industrial zone you need a special permit to do anything other than light industrial.”Ward 1 Councilor Wayne Lozzi said he has enjoyed breakfast at Over Easy but he believes change is inevitable. As for the possibility of a large scale pharmacy, Lozzi said efficiency seems to be the trend.”I think the days of a corner drug store, and I’m old enough to remember the corner drug store, are gone,” he said. “I miss those days but if a pharmacy were to be presented, I don’t think it’s a bad thing.”Ward 5 Councilor Brendan Crighton said he hopes if the businesses consider relocating they will reopen somewhere in Lynn.Donovan said it’s his understanding that Ernie’s Harvest Time, a popular produce and meat market, will relocate within the city.”It’s always sad to see family run businesses move on but I have to imagine it was a good idea for all three businesses,” he said.Chris Stevens can be reached at [email protected].