We’re all aware that the wonderful concrete paintings in downtown leave far fewer quality spaces for parking. Once the town numbers increase with returning students, the walk from what remains available will be too much for some seniors and others with limited capability — especially while wearing masks that inhibit deep breathing.
By reintroducing usual parking limits and fees for what remains of our parking spaces, the town is effectively allowing those spry and apt to walk a much greater distance, at a speedier clip, to have access to the center of town, while those who cannot easily walk those distances, will miss out. I assume this will effectively limit who gets to access take out from restaurants in the center.
I have suggested to our town councilors and town manager that many more 15-minute spots be designated for take out from the closest spots to restaurants and to the library, which has resumed lending. Unless that happens, I for one, will not be inclined to come into town and will most likely travel a greater distance by car, for better access to food and shops in other towns.
Additionally, I hope this is not a measure to limit seniors from the town center, in some sort of plan to keep them distant (and potentially safer) from the students coming back, whose numbers will dominate in downtown. That would be highly objectionable! Maybe we should start talking about tax rebates for the lack of downtown access for we the taxpayers.
To my comments the only offering I got from town representatives is that their goal is economic vitality and that they will consider the 15-minute spots. I’d like to suggest that you senior readers and those of you with limited walking capacity, weigh in on your goals for inclusion. Thank you.
Rebecca Hull
Amherst
