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Just wondering what the opinions are on the parklets in Sebastopol last Saturday. They certainly seemed to be utilized.
I also hope they were just temporary structures and if the project goes forth, it would have a more attractive outlook.
Am surprised CalTrans allowed this.
I'm shocked insurance companies allowed it.
As if a 2x4 & some plywood is going to stop a car.
Not against it if it's done artfully & safely for the pedestrians (the demo was neither).
I Loved the parklets! What a wonderful way to get people to stop and enjoy downtown! If we can't widen the sidewalks then I hope to see more permanent parklets on Main St!
Quote:
Posted in reply to the post by Beanie:
I was driving down Main St. as I do regularly and thinking about the Parklets and Main St. Sebastopol and what brings me and people in general to Main St Sebastopol.
I consider myself a relative newcomer having moved here in 1971 to go to Sonoma State. I stayed, grew a family here, although my kids now live elsewhere.In those days, the main block, of Main St had 3 bakeries, 3 pharmacies, Carlsons Dept Store, Analy Bazzar and other stores and restaurants that I can't recall.Oh and Safeway was where Rite Aid is.
The point is, you could go down to Main St. and find businesses with things that you needed for everyday life.
This was before all the little shops got stomped by the big boxes.
(The phone number of the Safeway Pharmacy is that of the old Peaze(sp?) Pharmacy on Main St.)
Not so much anymore.
When I go down there now, it's usually to take a walk or get a bite to eat.
I loved the Parklets! In fact, we celebrated a neighbor's birthday in the one in front of the Cookie Co. It's easily the best sitting experience I've ever had on Main Street. I'd love to see them happen permanently. That would bring higher quality materials and nice, unique designs.
As far as safety is concerned, they are in parking spaces, so there are cars parked on both ends. I think the odds are pretty slim that a car would turn sideways into one. Even better if we had bike lanes running down Main Street too!
My hope is that people will begin to change the way they think about the land that we've dedicated to cars in the form of roads. Roads are public land, so why not reclaim some of it for people instead?