Please reconsider Detour’s request

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An open letter to the city officials of Carmel,

I am a homeowner that resides in the Carmel Arts & Design District. Neither I, nor any friend or family member, is in any way shape or form associated with the Detour restaurant.

Prior to making my home in Carmel, I lived in Michigan. Unlike Michigan, Carmel does not have lakes and beaches. I lived in California. Carmel does not have ocean views or mountains. What it does have is a vibrant plan to make living in suburbia more than just rows of houses and strip malls. I have seen that forward-thinking plan – specifically the Monon Trail and Community Center, the City Center and the Carmel Arts & Design District turn Carmel into one of the most unique suburban communities in America and a truly awesome place for a family to call home.

Recently, I have learned of the city’s decision to keep 2nd Avenue NW open for the summer of 2013 in response to noise complaints from some local residents. I find it extremely disappointing that the city would take this rather drastic action instead of finding a solution that can both solve any perceived noise problems and allow the area to thrive.

I ask that city officials please reconsider this decision in order to help the Arts District grow into what it can; one of the most unique and vibrant locations ever seen in American suburbia. Please give the leadership of Detour another chance to work with you in creating a compromise that works in the best interest of the district as a whole, rather than allow individual residents with their individual complaints to determine policy changes. By closing 2nd Avenue NW, what is created is nothing short of a community patio, complete with occasional live music on weekends for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy. This decision is a critical component to the future success of the entire Arts District –  not just the Detour restaurant.

It is also important to note that 2nd Avenue NW, when open, is a tragic accident waiting to happen. Children throughout the summer run around enjoying the area between the Sophia Square fountain and the Monon Trail, rarely realizing that they are actually crossing a functioning road. The area, as a whole, appears much more like a backyard patio than it does a street. It has absolutely no lines or a curb to distinguish it as an actual roadway.

I have seen countless suburbs across America and have rarely seen anything as unique and positively energetic as the intersection of the Monon and Main Street last summer. Please reconsider.

Thank you sincerely for your time and consideration.

 

Mike Culver
46032


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