Candidate – Eamon Dawes

\"\"

eamon4waltham@gmail.com

781-219-8095

I grew up on the North Shore and moved to Waltham after graduating college in 2016. I’ve lived in the same apartment on the South Side ever since. I work in cybersecurity and spend all day doing long-term, low-risk planning. Over the years I have gotten more involved in local politics, advocating for climate resiliency and improved bike infrastructure. I know all the streets downtown thanks to running with the Waltham Trail Runners. Waltham has been where I’ve matured and developed as an adult and I want to give back, helping my neighborhood grow into the next chapter of Waltham’s history.

What do you love most about Waltham?

Waltham’s bounty is limitless. Every month I discover something new and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. I have been talking with neighbors as I knock on doors for my campaign and I continue to meet wonderful people. I meet folks who have lived here their whole life and have moved from the other side of the planet. There is always a new restaurant to try or a new shop to peruse. We have world-class universities and leading global businesses. Waltham feels like it will give you as much as you can put in.

What would you change if you could?

There have been no new bike lanes built in Waltham since 2016. We are building the Mass Central Rail Trail but not a single safe connection for someone biking to or from the trail. There is no plan to connect the river path with the rail trail and both would absolutely be greater than the sum of their parts. I want to give a safe and comfortable alternative to driving. One that is good for our health, the environment, and our community.

What is one burning issue you plan to address if elected?

We absolutely need to change our zoning to ensure that more modest housing is built. Our laws currently prioritize parking and luxury condos over green space and homes for the working class. We are in a housing crisis and need to build housing for everyone instead of letting Boston developers continue to price out our neighbors.