• Given that we recognize the multiple uses of our streets, what is necessary, and what simply isn’t working? What abuses are happening, and
• What Existing Controls could be Activated to Counteract?
• What New Ideas might be Effective, and
• How do we Move Forward Together to Make Change?

Judging from response to the first forum, the neighborhood seems to be eager to address the question of who controls the streets: Should thoroughfares which are relatively quiet and one-way therefore be devoted to traffic trying to move quickly, or should those same streets’ residential character dominate? Given numerous recent tragedies, it seems hard to avoid the conclusion that current double-use is not working well. Of particular concern at the moment is Eighth Avenue , so we could well focus on this problem, but with the understanding that Eighth Avenue is an example of the larger problem.

We are reaching out to representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOT) to attend, as well as locally resident Traffic and Urban Planning specialists. Once again, Craig Hammerman will be on hand to guide us through who to appeal to for change, and how.

As ever, the point of this Forum is to draw together all parts of our Community – residents, merchants, landlords, electeds, non-profits, activists, and . . . . you! We aim to engage in productive discussion addressing issues of mutual concern, and to thus begin finding actual solutions. We believe that by coming together we can help each other and our neighborhood – Which is to say, our Home. What have you got to lose? Please come out, and join the discussion. Who knows? We could even make Something happen.

If you didn’t know:

The third Wednesday of every month is declared Community Forum Night at Community Bookstore. Each month the store will host a meeting to allow the community to come together and explore some question or issue pertinent to our shared life in the neighborhood. The topic of each meeting will be announced ahead of time, and we will try to find someone particularly knowledgeable to moderate the meeting, beginning with a brief summary of the issue and then being available to answer questions, serve as a font of information, and generally steer the discussion. We welcome your suggestions and requests for topics you’d like to discuss! Email cat_bohne@yahoo. com with any ideas!