The following template has been created for use by community members interested in advocating about the bollard design at Ropes Mansion. Please feel free to use and adapt this template.
Optional: Add a sentence about why this matters to you personally — e.g., “I walk Essex Street daily,” “I’m a homeowner nearby,” or “I lead walking tours.”
___________________________
Dear [Mayor Pangallo (dpangaallo@salem.com) / City Councilors
(CityCouncilors@salem.com) / Historical Commission Members (pkelleher@salem.com)],
As a Salem resident and someone who values our city’s unique historic character, I’m writing to express concern about the recent installation of the excessively tall 54” cast iron bollards in front of the Ropes Mansion on Essex Street.
I understand and support the City’s efforts to improve pedestrian safety — especially in high-traffic areas, but the scale and placement of these bollards are out of place in such a historically important setting. The Ropes Mansion is one of Salem’s most recognizable landmarks, and the visual impact of the bollards with the new sidewalk design is inappropriate.
I believe there are better solutions that would balance both safety and preservation. Shorter bollards are a must. Adding chains to define the space might offer enhanced protection without overwhelming the historic streetscape. I am concerned that this design could become a standard elsewhere in the city — something I hope we can avoid.
Salem is a place where history and modern life come together. I urge the City to revisit this installation and consider alternatives that reflect our community’s values — including both safety and respect for our unique historic resources.
Thank you for your time and service to the city.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Street (optional)]
[Your Email or Phone (optional)]
