To the editor:
Greetings from the “Land of the Forgotten.”
I want to acknowledge that National Grid returned to Ward 6-2 and 6-4 to repair sections of sidewalks following gas line installation. For a moment, it gave many of us hope. After five years of disruptive construction, it finally seemed like our neighborhood might see meaningful improvement — specifically, proper cement sidewalks on Bennett Street.
Unfortunately, that hope was short-lived.
Despite repeated concerns raised at City Hall meetings, most of the sidewalks are once again being replaced with asphalt. Residents have made it clear — many times — that we want durable, safe, and attractive cement sidewalks. Instead, the city allowed for the cheaper option to be installed by the construction company regarding asphalt versus cement.
This decision sends a troubling message: that our neighborhood is an acceptable place to cut corners.
We pay substantial property taxes, yet receive substandard results. Asphalt sidewalks are uneven, lumpy, and deteriorate quickly. In contrast, cement provides a level, long-lasting, and safer surface. It’s fair to ask: would city officials accept asphalt sidewalks in front of their own homes?
The safety issue is not theoretical. A close, elderly neighbor of mine fell on one of these sidewalks, suffering serious injuries to her face and head that required hospitalization and months of physical therapy. Situations like this could be prevented with better infrastructure.
Meanwhile, other parts of Lynn — such as Market Street and the Commons — are receiving significant upgrades, including attractive, well-constructed sidewalks. Our neighborhood deserves the same level of care and investment. Instead, City Hall allowed for asphalt to be placed around the perimeter of Bennett Street Park and the length of the street across from the school on Bennett Street and the Administration Building.
Residents here want to feel proud of where we live. We want safe walkways for families, children, seniors, and pet owners. Instead, this latest decision lowers both the quality of life and the perceived value of our area.
After years of enduring construction, this was an opportunity for the city to improve conditions and demonstrate that all neighborhoods matter equally. Instead, it has left many of us disappointed and frustrated.
We deserve better.
Tracy Faulkner
Lynn
