Business Owners Dislike Proposed Center Changes

By Sue Ellen Woodcock

Winthrop business owners and residents have submitted a petition to the Town Council regarding to potential closing of Hagman Road in the town center.

Petitioners are asking for Hagman Road not to be closed because it would impact their businesses and associated parking. Petitioners state that “citizens continue to be unaware of the factual details surrounding the closing of Hagman Road.”

The petition cites its main reason for opposition is the loss of approximately 42 parking spaces.

James Murray, of Andiamo’s New Image at 92 Jefferson St., was amongst the small group which submitted a 200-signature petition to the council during a quick meeting last week.

Michelle Murray, also of Andiamo’s, said she has elderly clients who would be impacted by not having parking close to the shop. Lux Salon next door has the same concern.

“Don’t close Hagman Road until we get back 42 spaces,” Michelle Murray said. “I’m for redevelopment, but I want it to help everyone. They’re taking parking away.”

Andiamo’s has been at its current site for 13 years and in business in town for the last 25 years.

“We came to the center because we were told it would be good for business. Who knew?” asked James Murray.

Councilor Heather Engman said in a Facebook post that “the idea behind the traffic study and potentially closing Hagman Road is to create more attractive space in the town center for residents to gather for coffee, an outdoor meal, farmer’s market, etc. The expectation is that a more attractive outdoor space in the center business district to 1) bring people to the center 2) generate more economic activity at small business and 3) increase property value.”

She went on to say that the current traffic study data will be used to make informed decisions on how to improve green space in the center.

The town manager and the council’s center business district committee have held numerous meetings regarding the town center. Topics have included the master plan, parking and creating green space.

Resident John Vitagliano, a professional transportation planner, said he opposes then plan.

“This could be one of the worst things for the Center,” he said.