Fink Park completely void of benches. *Photos by Carolyn Maxwell

Five Corners Cement Benches

When I walk down Smith Street, I am occasionally stopped by residents who lament the removal of the benches that were located at Fink Park and elsewhere downtown. Some individuals have used those benches  to sleep on and illegal activities have taken place there.

But most importantly, I have seen shoppers or families using those benches just to take a breather. On very hot days it’s a shame when residents or visitors can’t find a bench to rest on, especially when they have their small children with them.

Our City Officials need to ask those shoppers, visitors or families how they feel about having those benches removed.

I remember when the City would hold community events in the Park such as handing out literature on Pedestrian safety. Young entrepreneurs would hold activities to display their wares. Let’s put the downtown mini-parks back to good use again.

Fink Park is big enough to have a small Police sub-station. It could help on cutting down illegal activity taking place there.

Park near Jefferson Street Parking Deck

I don’t know who owns Fink Park, but if other towns can have benches  in their business districts, I don’t see why Perth Amboy should be an a exemption. Fink Park is in the heart of the business district and should be made into a beautiful focal point.

Parking in the business district is not free. Benches provide a place where people like to sit to talk and find out what’s going on in the community.

Residents who live above businesses on Smith Street should also be considered. They should have a minipark to sit and enjoy the outdoors.

– Carolyn M.