COMMUNITY OPINION On board with downtown plans but not the concept, says letter writer

To the Editor (and County Council and Staff):

I understand the need to replace, repair our downtown core, due to several reasons such as accessibility, widening of streets, upgrades to lighting etc Pipes in the ground must be replaced, widening of sidewalks must happen due to allowing more access for retailers to create their accessible entrances to stores.

I have spoken with many residents of Paris, and they are on board with the concept but not the actual design.

There’s a proposal for parking to change from angle to parallel parking. I believe this idea could create many problems as it will decrease the number of parking spots (which has already happened).

Municipal parking was created on the old OPP land, but it’s not enough. Also, it will be very difficult for several drivers to properly parallel park as traffic will be backed up on Grand River Street North causing unhappy drivers. I have suggested new parallel parking on the east (river side) and maintaining the angle parking on west (county service office side). This will widen the street allowing for more accessibility. My reasoning is the east side has nowhere to go but roadside, where the other side (west) has possible back door entry We would satisfy everyone because handicap could be kept on both sides, giving residents opportunity to angle parking as accustomed.

Trees planted in sidewalks have been done before, they are lovely but must be maintained to create nice vibes. As much as I am pleased with businesses using sandwich boards for their advertising, we must be careful not to create sidewalks of signs – no matter how wide you extend sidewalks, they will get used to capacity.

The Norfolk The Norfolk

The above are a few of my thoughts, so please take the time to review all your information before you move forward.

Thank you.

Shirley Simons

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