I consider Central Maine Medical Center to be a great asset to Lewiston and Auburn. Significant in that parts of my own life have benefited from its presence — my children were born there; the Heart and Vascular Center saved my life after a heart attack; and my quality of life was restored by replacement of my hip joints.

Because of all the good the people there do, I wish they would reconsider their present policy of buying significant parts of the architectural and cultural heritage of downtown Lewiston and then tearing them down; beautiful structures that graced this town and provided continuity to generations of citizens.

Tearing down buildings that are wonderful examples of the pride and craftsmanship of past generations, to provide surface parking for a handful of cars, has a greater negative impact on the larger community than perhaps they realize. It seems to me that people have a difficult time feeling good about a place in which they live when everything with history that brings back fond memories and a sense of peace disappears.

As a large, sophisticated corporation, I am sure CMMC’s administration plans every move they make in great detail. Perhaps they could come up with a better short term and long-range plan for parking that leaves what is left of Lewiston’s significant architecture intact for the rest of us to enjoy.

Noel Smith, Auburn