Graham, Donna
From: Fresh of Nashua See
Sent: Friday, February 11, 2022 4:52 PM
To: Board of Aldermen; Graham, Donna; Cummings, Tim
Subject: Downtown Barriers 2022 season.
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Hello,
As a small business owner who has seen a downturn in business the past 2 spring/summer/fall seasons due
to the lack of on-street parking, | would like to ask you to consider some sort of compromise when voting on
the barriers for extended outdoor dining for the downtown restaurants.
| do realize how important during the covid surge it was to have extended outdoor seating in order to help the
restaurants survive. However, it came at a cost to the small retailers such as Fresh, and service providers such
as hair salons, etc...
The first year there were 3 parking spots available outside my storefront, the second year only 2? Not sure
why that had to happen but | ask you to consider at least going back to 3 spots.
Also, how about a shorter season? Mid-March is cold, damp, even snowy and except for the occasional nice
day, outdoor dining really won't fill up until mid-May thru maybe mid-October.
As for the parking argument, | have many female customers who shop alone that refuse to park in the garages
for fear of being accosted by homeless or panhandlers. | myself would not if alone.
Much of my spring-summer business comes from someone driving by and finding an open spot. in the past 2
years, many did not shop because they found it too difficult to get through the downtown due to the barriers
and one-lane backups of traffic.
| know this is difficult for all, | am just asking for some compromise as | really do not want to leave downtown.
Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your consideration when voting.
Regards
Cheryl Plunkett
Cheryl Plunkett
Fresh of Nashua
178 Main Street
Nashua, NH 03060
