In his recent Op Ed Ron McAllister expressed his opinion regarding an 80-year-old president. Portsmouth Candidates should be judged on their performance, not their ages Such an idea should be explored fully rather than simply changing a street direction which continues to put cars, and their emissions, in the downtown area. and many European cities successfully made centers of town pedestrian only (despite initial concerns of businesses and locals), yet businesses thrived as they expanded outdoor seating, and the new spaces allowed cart businesses and created a more festive, walkable area for both locals and tourists. Lastly, if "pedestrian friendly" remains the goal of the Council, then considering making Market Square and Congress Street to Maplewood Ave a Pedestrian Only Zone (with the cross streets allowing traffic and necessary delivery trucks) makes the most sense. Funneling traffic from State Street to Middle would force many more cars through residential neighborhoods whereas down Islington Street pushes traffic mostly through business areas.
Recently reducing the speed limit to 25 mph helps, but police monitoring continues as drivers still speed over the Route 1 overpass bridge as they head to 95, or continue their speed off of 95 into town. I strongly oppose turning State Street into a two-way street as doing so, on a very narrow street with parking on both sides, will actually promote longer stopping or idling times for cars attempting to negotiate the congested area.Īdditionally, Middle Street already handles traffic coming and going to Route 95 and thus elevated speed remains an issue. I strongly oppose making State Street into a two-way street