Return statue to gateway to the city

PHOTOGRAPHER: Letters to the Editor

I would like to comment on the possible relocation of the Statue of Liberty replica that stood for decades in Liberty Park.

Let me point out that Schenectady was settled by immigrants, primarily the Dutch, in the mid-1600s. It encompasses so much history — the survival of the Stockade District, the former Hotel VanCurler (now SCCC), the obvious name of the Western Gateway Bridge and the Glen Sanders Mansion to name a few.

That area of State Street has light posts chosen a number of years ago to replicate older-style lighting. Even the college suites housing for SCCC students was designed to blend into the neighborhood.

It astounds me that anyone familiar with this part of New York state could possibly say that the statue “doesn’t seem to fit anymore” but chose to rename the park Gateway Plaza.

Personally, what I feel doesn’t fit into such a historic area is light saber pillars. Why would you install something that resembles a fictional energy sword from a Star Wars futuristic movie in a city over 300 years old?

As much as I appreciate my Italian heritage, I also appreciate my Dutch heritage and believe the statue should be returned to the “gateway” of the city where all who enter can appreciate it.

Sharon Trumpler

Scotia