Re:Thousands flock downtown for a peek at some old rides(July 12).

Congratulations to the St. Catharines Downtown Association, and specifically to event co-ordinator Elizabeth Fritshaw, for a job very well done. Perfect weather, a large display of cars , and a wonderful showing of participation by all the visitors to our downtown core. It was heartwarming to see all those people, collectively more than you would probably see for weeks or months in the downtown.

The farmer's market was never so busy! It got me thinking that if we had a street closed off to traffic in the summer months, it could provide a focal point and a destination for our citizens. We could try a block of James St. perhaps. Besides traffic barricades at each end, all we would need are a few planters and a couple of benches. I know the restaurants would open up outdoor cafes, and if there was a small raised area, there are many groups of musicians or other performance artists who could be invited to stage a small show.

We need more festival-type activities such as this to make the downtown attractive and to encourage more people to visit. Hobby groups could even do presentations. A busker weekend would be a possibility. Traffic could still flow east and west on the main streets. What do you say city council? Surely a one-month trial could be arranged this summer. It's not too late to capitalize on what we have, the summer weather and the success of the Downtown Car Show.

John Duffy St. Catharines