Sandwich boards vex me

By Valerie Proctor

If your sandwich board or A-frame sign is sticking out on the sidewalk, I am the person who pushes it in close to your establishment! I even called the city about one big, heavy board the owner regularly leaves in the middle of the sidewalk! 

There are many obstacles on our sidewalks besides the many bumps and cracks: light posts, traffic signs, parking payment stations, tables and chairs, planters, gas meters, temporary ramps, patios, menus on stands, construction paraphernalia, and e-bikes. This list does not include people who may be walking, chatting, sitting, or sleeping on the pavement.

Our Lowertown market area is messy. There don’t seem to be any rules or guidance as to what can be installed on the sidewalk.

There are suggestions as to the size, height, and placement of sandwich boards, but they are not enforced.

Just imagine the person with a visual disability or someone trying to navigate a wheelchair or walker. Families with strollers must proceed with patience and determination on our higgledy-piggledy sidewalks.

Considering the number of residents, tourists, and delivery people navigating our area, one would think that the city might consider realigning our streets and controlling the placement of all these permanent and moveable objects.

People should come first! We deserve attractive, safe sidewalks and streets.