As a long time resident of Coral Gables, I am very much worried about the $16 million to make changes to Miracle Mile. I agree with City Commission candidate Marlin Ebbert about feeling uncomfortable going into the parking garages, especially for the elderly and in the dark ( Group 2 candidates discuss issues, Neighbors, March 17). They are not safe, and the parking spaces are so small, as candidate Vince Lago says, “Big cars don’t fit there.” I have a large car, and going up those high ramps is difficult at times.

I do not think we should spend $16 million to change the parking. The merchants need all the parking for their customers in front of the stores. Already all the restaurants and coffee houses are taking away the spaces for their private use, for their customers who are just sitting outside and playing with electronic gadgets. That is not fair.

Real shopping customers can’t find space because we have so many restaurants — too many. Enough is enough.

Just trim the trees, perhaps repave the side walk and leave the parking spaces the way they are, without major spending.

Candidate Ross Hancock said it well: work with the parking that is available and “not try something unrealistic.”

Coral Gables needs to improve the streets by cutting out tree roots that are destroying resident’s swales and driveways. Spend the $16 million on really important repairs.

Vilma Banks, Coral Gables