I have been told by certain city workers that the change from two one-way lanes to two-way traffic on High Street and State Street is a done deal.
This would be a disaster. To slow down the only major thoroughfares that allow access to our city would be a mistake.
Portland is not some burg in North Carolina trying to slow down drivers. It is and always has been a bustling, small commercial city. It is way more than the Maine College of Art.
People are not just driving through. All the businesspeople, tourists and workers need to get into and out of town. The new system would make that a nightmare.
I own the property that I live in on the West End. I walk a lot and drive over the bridge for shopping. So whatever they do, it would not affect me personally.
Yes, there is a pedestrian problem. State and Congress streets come to mind. I also believe that pedestrians in Portland are quite spoiled, crossing randomly outside crosswalks, etc. A few jaywalking tickets to these types would solve a lot.
But ultimately, if it is difficult to get in and out of Portland, all the bars, restaurants and shops will fold like dominoes. I do not believe that students of MECA and those of us who live in the city can support all the businesses by ourselves.
Charles Crane
Portland
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