To the editor:
I want Storrs Center to succeed not only because I lead the University of Connecticut, but for a much more personal reason as well: I am a resident of the town of Mansfield.
I live steps away from the downtown area. My husband and I vote in Mansfield. One of our children is a graduate of EO Smith and another will graduate next year. This is our home.
Like any other family, mine buys groceries every week to cook, bake and fill our cupboards. Access to a new grocery store with fresh foods located in the heart of the town – that can be reached both by foot and car – would be a most welcome addition.
I sincerely hope that the town Planning and Zoning Commission will amend its regulations to allow for a grocery store to come to Storrs Center.
A grocery store adds a tremendous value to an area – particularly when it is planned wisely and in such a way that is as aesthetically pleasing outside as it is inside. That’s true whether we’re talking about a predominately rural community like Mansfield or the most densely-packed neighborhood in New York City: a grocery store makes a neighborhood a very attractive place to live. It would also provide jobs, increase foot traffic in downtown and help draw other businesses to the downtown area. Not to mention contributing to Mansfield’s bottom line financially.
Sincerely,
Susan Herbst
Mansfield
