As we continue tracking candidate positions on Open Air, today’s post features mayoral candidate Bill Fryer’s position on the summer street closures.

When asked about barriers surrounding Open Air, Fryer responded with a clear, direct message:

“Good morning and my response to your question and concerns that apparently have not been addressed will be taken care of as part of my plan to address all of the issues you have been fighting for, for who knows how long. Open air is a matter the entire community wants input and at this point has been a burden for many residents. I believe I have mentioned this issue a few times already.”

This aligns closely with his official campaign profile published by the River Town Times, where he went on record stating bluntly: “Open Air, as far as I’m concerned, is done.”

Fryer’s position:

• An Unaddressed Burden: Fryer explicitly identifies the recurring summer layout as a burden for many local residents.
• Opposing the Main Thoroughfare Closure: In his public campaign statements, he has criticized the weekly closure of a critical thoroughfare like Dalhousie Street, noting it creates severe traffic and accessibility issues.
• A Promise for Direct Action: Fryer notes that these ongoing community concerns “will be taken care of” under his platform.

---

By calling the recurring closure an unaddressed “burden,” he reflects the frustration felt by residents who are locked out of their own downtown core for four months every summer.

---

What Do You Think?

Bill Fryer states that the weekly closure of our main artery has run its course and promises that these accessibility barriers will be taken care of under his leadership.

Do you agree with Fryer that the current Open Air footprint is an unnecessary burden on the community, or do you prefer the scaled-back compromises proposed by other candidates? Let me know in the comments.