While we debate the downtown plan, I believe the decision has
already been made. The design of the successful Third Street
promenade in Morgan Hill is the model for the rest of downtown with
its wide sidewalks, single-lane traffic and reduced median.
Dear Editor,

While we debate the downtown plan, I believe the decision has already been made. The design of the successful Third Street promenade in Morgan Hill is the model for the rest of downtown with its wide sidewalks, single-lane traffic and reduced median.

To do differently would be inconsistent with the General Plan and conflict with the many design and public feedback studies already completed. The single-lane proposal gives us the ability to extend activities to walkways for restaurateur’s as well as allow for unique commercial and specialty retail interests.

We already have a reputation for having several wonderful communitywide special events in the downtown that have drawn tens of thousands from all across the region. Continued success depends on these critical design decisions.

The downtown has every opportunity to be an entertainment, cultural and social center as so many of us have envisioned. With the 500 new residential units scheduled to be built at the core of the downtown in adherence to smart growth principles, wide meandering sidewalks and single-lane traffic promotes a sense of openness, welcome, comfort and safety. Why would you invest in anything that would be constrictive and uninviting?

Yes, we should widen the sidewalk and extend the Third Street Promenade all around the city. Yes, we should limit traffic to one lane through downtown and complete the Butterfield and Santa Teresa extensions to increase arterial flow around downtown while making it more accessible. It’s time to move forward with these projects that will only enhance the image and reputation of this fine community.

Mark Grzan, former City Councilmember, Morgan Hill

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