Firstly, I’d like to commend the city on a job well done in the planning of and for this summer’s downtown construction.
My concern, however, is the lack of visibility in the area now and the safety concerns that go along with that.
When the construction fence and privacy mesh went up, I had some concerns about the severe drop in visibility.
The physical structure of the fence and mesh severely limits one’s field of view, and the dark material of the mesh absorbs much of the available light.
This field of view obstacle is a concern during the day, as well, but most of my concerns are about the time after dark.
The privacy mesh, however, could possibly be changed.
If a light color of mesh was used instead of the existing dark color, more light would be reflected off the material.
Auburn does a great job with police and other security presence in the downtown area.
With visibility completely blocked by the construction fence, no security is in sight. One literally doesn’t know what’s around the corner.
A number of friends have expressed their feelings of being unsafe in the downtown area now.
I understand that there is far less traffic, both motor vehicle and pedestrian, in the summer than other parts of the year, so the need for security may be less too.
But people are still visiting downtown.
People are still spending money and supporting the businesses.
Those businesses desperately need that support since the construction is affecting them for an entire quarter, and summertime is rough for them anyway.
Downtown visitors should feel safe being there.
I love downtown Auburn.
I typically spend one or two nights there each week.
I’ve lived in Auburn and Opelika for over eight years and never felt unsafe at any point while downtown.
I don’t want to start now.
I want my friends and I to continue supporting the businesses and feel safe doing so.
Melissa Humble is a photographer at Auburn University Photographic Services.
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