During a recent government meeting, local business owners and officials discussed significant concerns regarding the state of downtown sidewalks and parking in the community. Business representatives expressed frustration over the poor maintenance of existing sidewalks, which they argue have not been adequately addressed since 1984. They highlighted that the current conditions make it difficult for pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities, to navigate the area safely.

One business owner emphasized that the sidewalks are often cluttered and uneven, making it unsafe for foot traffic, especially during winter months when ice accumulates. This has led to a decrease in pedestrian activity, which they believe could be improved with better maintenance and wider sidewalks. The owner pointed out that the town's lack of support for businesses downtown has exacerbated these issues, stating, \"the city's fault for not supporting businesses downtown.\"

The discussion also touched on the potential impact of widening parking lanes. While some officials suggested that this could improve traffic flow and safety, there were concerns about how it might affect the number of available parking spaces. A representative noted that crash data indicated high accident rates in the downtown area, prompting a reevaluation of parking designs.

The meeting concluded with a call for a more comprehensive approach to enhancing walkability and safety in the downtown area, with an emphasis on the need for better collaboration between the city and local businesses to create a more pedestrian-friendly environment.