Letter to the Editor: Commercial Street, downtown districts should share traffic

As a longtime Springfieldian, I am eager for both the downtown area and Commercial Street to be active, successful and benefit from a full revitalization. I oftentimes go out of my way to and from my Commercial Street business through the downtown area just to delight in the progress made there.

I have a long history of passion and support for Commercial Street and all its potential. I want Ms. Hyde to know that this store owner did not “just glom on to what (downtown) already had.” I have never been a fan of the “them and us” mentality; I believe we can all benefit from living in a beautiful city that offers so much to all areas.

Every customer that comes in my store is asked the same thing, “Do you come down to Commercial Street for the First Friday activities?” If yes, then I say, “Great, come early, leave your car parked and hitch a ride on the free bus shuttle down to the Art Walk and back.” If the answer is, “No, we go to the Art Walk,” then I say, “Great, if you get done early, leave your car parked and hitch a ride on the free bus shuttle and come down to Commercial Street and enjoy the activities until 10 p.m.”

I want all small-business owners, local artisans, gallery owners, food establishments, etc., to be successful regardless of where they are and what day they are open late during the month. I believe both historic areas can benefit from one another in a relationship that will allow both areas to prosper.

Sincerely,

—Jennifer Farquhar

Owner, Red Books & Chairs[[In-content Ad]]