So why is the Bridge of Flowers still closed? Last February, the committee that oversees the Bridge of Flowers was looking forward to a festive re-opening on April 1. Maybe with a parade through town, similar to the one featured in last fall’s 90th birthday party for the Bridge. But then, in March, the pandemic descended and the state went into full lockdown.
The committee complied with the state-mandated regulations for closures. No one questioned then why the Bridge was closed.
As foliage season approaches, however, questions are circulating about why the Bridge remains closed: “Why not have one-way traffic?” “It’s bad for local businesses!” “Our numbers here are so low!”
Visitors sometimes lean over the gates to complain to the gardeners: “I drove all the way here — it’s ridiculous!”
In May, when the state of Massachusetts issued guidelines for botanic gardens to re-open in Phase III, the committee met “online” to determine how we might comply with them to re-open. The regulations included that we: 1) Schedule visitations in advance to control the number on the Bridge; 2) Enforce the six-foot distancing rule; 3) Enforce the wearing of masks; 4) Limit the number of people in a specified area at any one time; 5) Collect visitors’ names and contact information.
Our decision was clear: we could not re-open because we could not meet the requirements of the law.
As an entirely volunteer operation, we have neither the paid staff nor the administrative structure to schedule visitors, collect names and contact information, or post monitors on the Bridge. What’s more, the narrow path on the Bridge itself makes physical distancing — even with one-way traffic — nearly impossible. And, opening the Bridge would very likely encourage even more tourists that bring with them the potential to spread the contagion.
Unfortunately, what keeps us all safe also threatens the small shops and restaurants that give such character and personality to this village. Many have struggled valiantly these past few months to keep their doors open. They have been innovative in meeting the state guidelines for re-opening and welcoming to visitors and locals alike.
In a “normal” year, thousands of people visit the area to walk the Bridge of Flowers. The ambience of the towns is often a secondary consideration. But this year, with tourism in general depressed and the Bridge closed, we think it’s time to give our shops and restaurants top billing.
In place of all the visitors, let’s join in “playing tourist” by committing to shopping locally whenever possible. Need a book for your grandchild? A bottle of wine or a loaf of bread? Tired of your own cooking? Something new to lift your spirits? It’s all here, in our own backyard.
These are not normal times. But the conditions inflicted on us challenge us to bridge to better times.
The Bridge will re-open. The tourists will return, we hope. Until then, let’s do all we can to sustain the other beating heart of our village — our local business community.
Co-Chair Carol Angus submitted this My Turn on behalf of the Bridge of Flowers Committee, which includes: Kay Berenson, Connie Clarke, Judy Harlow, Lynda Leitner, Mariana Luz, Peggy March, Laurel Rollins, Joanne Soroka, Annette Szpila (chair) and Marion Taylor.