The office where I work is in the State Theatre building, six floors above Congress Square Park. I eat lunch in the park almost every day (usually at the delicious Small Axe food truck). Enjoying good food, running into friends, soaking up the beautiful summer weather, these are the things I love about Portland, and I get them all in one place.

I think the controversy over the park has actually done a lot of good. Every time I cross High Street and step into the park I see more people enjoying it. Events and performances are taking place almost every evening, and the Friends of Congress Square have been working hard to bring in local talent, provide useful amenities and show Portland what the park can be.

The vote to save Congress Square Park last month made me proud. Most everyone seems to be on the same side. We want the park to be lively, attractive and public. It would be disheartening to see another divisive vote on privatizing the park. Instead, let’s work together towards the common goal of making Congress Square a great park.

Andy Jones
South Portland


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