Barring the public
For 12 years, I have accessed the Sewalls Falls Multi-Use Recreational area from Second Street in Concord, watching people from all walks of life fish, run and kayak. It was a space that brought our community together.
A few months ago, an orange gate was installed, barring public access to the parking lots and boat launch. When I asked local officials why, the City of Concord blamed the state, while the state ignored my inquiries. I later learned NH Fish & Game closed it due to litter. While some litter exists, I have seen no increase that justifies such a drastic shutdown.
Even if litter is the issue, why choose the most administratively convenient route? Managing a public space requires will and ability. Is the state simply unwilling to work with the community to find a real solution?
We are not passive consumers of public spaces; we are co-owners. We shouldn’t be treated like untrustworthy children. As philosopher Michael Sandel writes, democracy requires that we share a common life and “bump up against one another in the course of everyday life.” Shutting down public spaces only alienates citizens from the common good.