OUR SIDE: We were a little stung by the things a visitor to
Bradford said yesterday about the shabby condition of his old
hometown. And, today, we hear from another who agrees with him:
“It is so depressing to see the houses that are in shambles
and/or need repairs. Where are the ‘town government’ people and do
they walk around with their eyes closed or are they just content to
get their paychecks and hope no one notices how bad things really
are!”
“I continue to come back for a visit but it is so sad when I
leave to know that at one time Bradford was a great place to grow
up in and it is a shame to see it today!”
There is no doubt that Bradford has some problems, not the least
of which are dilapidated properties and streets in need of repair.
But a visit through town once a decade fails to tell the whole
story.
City officials have not been sitting idly by as the town
collapses around them. Bradford officials have been working
diligently for many years to remove blighted property – many owned
by absentee landlords. It’s not easy, quick or cheap.
At the same time, they have rehabilitated the length of Onofrio
Street and spent a small fortune rejuvenating Old City Hall. There
have been dramatic changes in many neighborhoods such as West
Washington Street, and, even as we write, efforts are under way on
the Elm Street project.
We have a newly renovated hospital, and Pitt-Bradford is not
only bigger but better (and more beautiful) than ever. Drive by the
old Kendall refinery and see that it’s going stronger than
ever.
Granted, Bradford still has much work to do. But compared to
many towns our size we have a lot to be thankful for.
Bradford has a diverse manufacturing base, a revitalized oil
industry, a strong timber industry, a plentiful water supply.
Our little town sits in the heart of one of the most beautiful
settings in the country, and we still get to hunt, fish, walk in
the woods, see the stars, hear the birds sing, and smell fresh,
clean air. (You didn’t see Bradford’s name on that “most polluted”
list, did you?)
And, for the most part, people who live here like it that
way.
Yes, there’s work to be done. A helping hand is always
welcome.
