HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/02/2024 - WalkBikeAndover Comment - - 2/3/24,8:35 AM Town of North Andover Mail-Reconstruction of North Andover Shopping Mall
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Jean Enright<jen rig ht@northandoverma.gov>
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Reconstruction of North Andover Shopping Mall
Walk Bike Andover<walkbikeandover@gmail.com> Fri, Feb 2, 2024 at 4:03 PM
To:jen rig ht@northandoverma.gov, zmelcher@northandoverma.gov, bwolstromer@northandoverma.gov,
egoldberg@northandoverma.gov,jsimons@northandoverma.gov, pboynton@northandoverma.gov,
gwilkens@northandoverma.gov, ckoskores@northandoverma.gov, skevlahan@northandoverma.gov
Dear North Andover Planning Board,
We were recently made aware of the upcoming changes to the North Andover Mall shopping plaza with the reversal of
Market Basket and Kohl's stores. We are a resident-led advocacy group working to make walking and biking safer in
Andover and neighboring towns, and are writing to express our strong support for the inclusion of bicycle
accommodations in the redevelopment work of the parking lot. Providing dedicated spaces for bicycles is a crucial step
towards encouraging alternative modes of transportation and reducing carbon footprint, especially considering the
improvements that will be made to Route 114 over the coming years that will include a multi-use path. We understand that
the lot may lose a number of parking spaces in the reconstruction. If there are concerns about this, we would like to
emphasize that enabling alternative modes of transportation via safe routes and secure parking will help alleviate the
removal of these spaces.
Including bicycle accommodations not only aligns with the growing trend of environmentally conscious urban planning but
also addresses the increasing number of residents and visitors who choose bicycles as a means of commuting or cannot
afford an alternative mode of transportation.
This initiative would not only support the health and well-being of our community members but also contribute to reducing
traffic congestion and promoting a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. We believe that integrating bicycle
racks, signage, and designated paths within the parking lot redesign will enhance the overall accessibility and inclusivity
of the shopping area, making it more welcoming for individuals who prefer or rely on cycling as a mode of transportation.
We trust that the North Andover Planning Board will consider these benefits as they work towards creating a more
sustainable and people-centric urban environment. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we look forward to
witnessing positive changes in our neighboring community's infrastructure that prioritize both environmental responsibility
and the well-being of its residents.
Sincerely,
WalkBikeAndover
walkbikeandover.org
walkbikeandover@gmaii.com
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