Barbara Krause’s response to Ken Jackson’s column makes a great point: there are a lot of neighborhoods in the city that are vibrant and walkable, but often overlooked.
We asked community members, readers and Eagle staff which city neighborhoods they feel are “hidden gems,” and here’s what they had to say:
“Westcott! Tons of diverse and flavorful independent businesses like Alto Cinco, Westcott Theatre, Boom Babies, and the Co-op. Plus, it’s a lot of fun to people watch. – Amanda Gormley, Marketing and Member Service Coordinator, Syracuse Real Food Co-op
“We often take for granted our city’s great park system, which connects every Syracuse neighborhood to the outdoors. There are more than 170 maintained parks, fields, inactive cemeteries, medians and natural areas. This is unusual for a city this size. These green spaces provide all neighbors an opportunity to get out and commune with each other and nature. In addition, there is ongoing organized recreation for all ages. A great way to experience another neighborhood is to start with its park. – Ellen Leahy, Skaneateles Press editor and former City Eagle editor
“Schools, grocery stores, libraries, retail establishments, restaurants and parks are key components to making a neighborhood walkable. You can walk your dog just about anywhere, but the ability to do your shopping or get a bite to eat without getting in your car is really a plus. Where I live in Eastwood, we have nearly all of these services available within a 10-minute walk. I don’t know that Eastwood is underrated, but I think some suburbanites underestimate the value of having your home, your job and your favorite eateries or watering holes all within walking distance of each other. It’s been a great place to live and to work. If we could only get Wegman’s to move their James Street store to the other side of Thompson Road, it would be perfect. – David Tyler, publisher, Eagle Newspapers
The “What you’re saying” section is a new feature in The Eagle intended to spark dialogue and share perspectives among community members. Each week we will ask you for your opinion on a topic, and a selection of responses will be included in the following week’s edition of the paper.
To receive the weekly “What you’re saying” question in your inbox, e-mail editor@theeaglecny.com. The question will also be posted our Facebook wall facebook.com/theeaglecny.com. Submit your feedback via e-mail or on our wall. Please limit responses to two or three sentences and include your name. The Eagle’s letters policy applies.
To get the ball rolling, here is next week’s question: What impact does paying to park have on your decision to shop, eat and visit downtown Syracuse?
