As residents of Springfield's East Forest Park neighborhood clean up and weigh their options for what comes next, many are afraid of what the destruction left from the June 1 tornadoes may mean for one of the city's most stable and affluent areas.
SPRINGFIELD - As residents of Springfield's East Forest Park neighborhood clean up and weigh their options for what comes next, many are afraid of what the destruction left from the June 1 tornadoes may mean for one of the city's most stable and affluent areas.
Scott Coen was on the streets talking to people during the heat wave on Wednesday and although many residents want to stay in the place they've called home for many years, others might opt to leave rather than rebuilding.
The story sparked a debate among some of MassLive's frequent contributors about what this tornado might mean for the city in the long run. Along with the pessimistic who have already given up on the "City of Homes" are a growing group of people who see now as the time to reinvest in their city and use the destruction as the jumping off point to breathe new life into it.
Here is what some of our readers have to say:
Lee: I would pay and leave, Springfield is home to crime and thugs now
Justin_Marsh_Knowledge_Corridor_Productions: East Forest Park is a beautiful neighborhood with the benefits of both an upper-middle class suburb, and with the convenience of having an increasingly vibrant urban environment close by.
The author used the word "stable" to describe East Forest Park -- "stability" connotes adaptability to different situations over time. Personally, I believe that's what East Forest Park will continue to show Springfield, based on its history of "stability." In other words, I do not foresee the 'exodus' pondered in this article.
cowkitties: As an EFP resident I hold a great deal of affection for both my neighborhood and this City. While it saddens me that the landscape throughout this City has changed forever, it is my hope that both our elected officials and residents view this as an opportunity to rebuild and re-establish Springfield as a desirable community where families can thrive. As I travel along Central Street I see demolished apartment blocks that can now accommodate affordable single family homes or duplexes/condexes which would allow residents to literally have an investment in their community. With the appropriate leadership, guidance and support, this disaster can result in a change for the better.
memd: the tornado was a tragic event and if people can financially get out of Springfield they should ~ not because of the tornado but because of the mis-management of the city of homes. Sad to say the once beautiful city has been allowed to be come a sewer. If the Bishop decides not to fix or rebuild Cathedral or St. Michaels it won't happen no matter what the alumni says. The Bishop has the final word.
stoner: A sewer? Take a look at the relief efforts and volunteerism right now. People still care for each other and their city. If you want to cower behind your keyboard, go ahead. If you want to help make the city better, this is a perfect opportunity to do so.
camelothot: I'd tell you where to put your sewer comment but I'm a lady. Springfield is a beautiful city chock full of beautiful people. Ask anyone who lives here. Obviously, you don't. The next time you get an itch to slam Springfield, consider this: Western Mass FEEDS off Springfield. It's the 4th largest city in New England and the hub of the Pioneer Valley. What happens HERE effects YOUR quality of life. It'd behoove you to promote economic development in the City of Homes – not negate it. That is, if you want to preserve that fabulous life of yours out in the burbs.
Scott Coen: I have lived in Springfield for 25 years, and while I could live anywhere in the area, my family loves living here. I wrote today after talking with several of my friends and neighbors about what might happen in our neighborhood. And while it is certainly too early to know what will happen, this is a conversation my friends and neighbors are having.
I think the lynch pin of this conversation is what will happen to Cathedral HS. It is no secret that the Diocese would prefer the school's location to be somewhere else. There is a feeling that the they kept the school where it is because of pressure from parents and alumni. What's happened over there changes many things. As a resident of EFP, I'm counting on Cathedral being rebuilt right where it is. I am worried it won't be. And if it isn't what will happen to the land.
efpres2: EFP is a great neighborhood. I hope Cathedral and St Michael's can be saved. At any rate I love living there and I intend to stay. There are many other good neighborhoods .....some have more issues than others.....but you will find good people and beautiful homes throughout the city.
What do you think? Cathedral High School the lynchpin to redeveloping East Forest Park? What should the city keep in mind as it moves forward with the rebuilding process? Chime in and join the conversation by commenting below.