The resolution comes on the heels of discussion prompted by the temporary removal of Main Street benches last month.
NORTHAMPTON — Now that the benches are back on Main Street, the City Council is turning its attention to a larger discussion of how to create a vibrant downtown that respects those who visit, work or gather there.
On Thursday night, the council will consider a first reading of the Resolution to Support Vibrant Sidewalks. The discussion was postponed from his June 6 meeting.
Last month, Mayor David J. Narkewicz ordered six benches removed for a trial period after he received complaints that the benches were occupied by a small group of homeless people and panhandlers all day.
The council had been planning to consider an ordinance that they be returned along with a resolution but the mayor had the benches returned before the council could act.
Now, the council is hoping the resolution will spark “an expanded community conversation,” said City Council President William H. Dwight.
How to address panhandling has been an issue for years. The council in 2009 talked about an ordinance to ban it.
“The Happy Frog,” a metal sculpture that serves as a downtown donation bank, was installed so people could donate money to the Friends of the Homeless instead of to people on the street. In practice, both the frog and panhandlers receive money.
“Every summer we have two big problems that become a crisis,” Dwight said. One is parking and the other is a clash between some business owners and the panhandlers. “These problems come with being a community center."
The resolution asks that the council see "sidewalks as spaces that can accommodate both enjoyable and disruptive activities," and encourages a review of two sidewalk studies as well as support for “sidewalk improvement and expanded street furniture” all along Main Street.
In 2011, the Nelson/Nygaard Design Charette called for widening the sidewalks and narrowing Main Street to “shorten crosswalks, increase safety, increase public space for foot traffic and in front of local businesses, and provide an opportunity for more benches.” This followed a 2005 improvement plan that suggested the sidewalk widening and increased seating as well.
Dwight said he is hoping the community takes up the conversation and invites councilors to their meetings to discuss how to address the needs of everyone.
The council meeting begins at 6 p.m. in City Council chambers.
Northampton City Council Resolution Support Vibrant Sidewalks by masslive