I am writing in regard to the recent article about the overhaul of Main Street. As a resident of a community near Northampton, I am concerned that the plan’s goal “to promote a vibrant and attractive downtown that’s accessible for all users” may not be achievable for me and my peers. As someone who frequently dines, shops and attends entertainment events in the city, and who is over 70 years old, I find the prospect of fewer parking places to be a deterrent to my taking advantage of all the city has to offer.

A “five-minute walk to Main Street” may be true of someone in their 20s, but not necessarily for someone of my age. With no public transit to my town and the time of my bicycling well in the past, I fear that less access to nearby parking will be a significant factor in decisions about going to Northampton. I hope my situation can be taken into account as the plan progresses.

Carol Jolly

Chesterfield

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