We have all read about the evolution and revitalization of downtown Waterville. There is no doubt that great things are happening, and Waterville and Colby College stand to gain in many venues. Undoubtedly, Colby does have the best interest of Waterville at heart, as they launch plans for a new dormitory/retail space in The Concourse area and a hotel/restaurant in the Levine building area at Lower Main Street.

Obviously, parking continues to be an issue and will only increase drastically as dormitory students, hotel guests, and restaurant patrons descend in the already crowded area.

I would like to suggest that consideration be given to constructing a two-story parking garage underneath or above the new Colby College dormitory/retail business space and another garage underneath or above the hotel/restaurant on Lower Main Street.

Expecting that people will park as far away as the Head of the Falls or at the former Marden’s Parking lot on Water Street or in the very few remaining spaces in The Concourse and walk great distances in all conditions of weather is unreasonable. This current parking scenario will be very detrimental to the convenience of patrons and customers and counterproductive to the goal of increased business ventures.

In addition, the population of Maine is known as “aged.” I feel it will not be as easily accessible to our senior citizens who will likely not walk those long distances.

I sincerely hope that further consideration will be given to this problem before it is too late.

Richard Grindall

Oakland