Dear Editor, I read the recent articles in the Morgan Hill Times
regarding the plans for Downtown Morgan Hill. I have a few
concerns. The article stated that, in order to
“ease the strain on new and expanding businesses … the plan
recommends reducing the number of parking spaces required.” I
believe that one of the best ways to drive shoppers away from the
downtown is to have inadequate parking. If they cannot park easily,
they will go to a shopping center wher
e parking is easier.
Dear Editor,
I read the recent articles in the Morgan Hill Times regarding the plans for Downtown Morgan Hill. I have a few concerns.
The article stated that, in order to “ease the strain on new and expanding businesses … the plan recommends reducing the number of parking spaces required.” I believe that one of the best ways to drive shoppers away from the downtown is to have inadequate parking. If they cannot park easily, they will go to a shopping center where parking is easier.
Additionally, it is foolish to assume that residents of the downtown area will not need “guest parking.” Of course they will need parking for guests and if it is not available, guests will park in the very limited remaining downtown parking, thus making it impossible for residents to go there to shop. I hope that the plan includes two parking spaces for each residential unit (in addition to guest parking), because that is a realistic requirement.
Regarding the requests by potential developers for RDA or city funds, I cannot see why the city should pay a developer to develop land and make a profit. Morgan Hill has many uses for any spare cash. I can see that we might want to assist in the renovation of the old theater because that would enhance the downtown and preserve a nice old building.
I believe that Morgan Hill should retain the four lanes on Monterey Street downtown. If we reduce it to one lane in each direction, we make it too difficult to drive through town and people won’t go there.
Additionally, our downtown is very beautiful and I would hate to see it destroyed by removal or reduction of the trees and flowers. It is currently a pleasant place to walk and driving and stopping to shop is pleasant. We should look at alternate methods to reduce the speed through the downtown area.
Nancie Barker, Morgan Hill
