Eesti Maja (EM) only has 60 spots that it advertises on it's on website.

Handicapped parking AND access to EM is basically non-existent.

ANY major event (or double booking) at either location currently requires paid parking or on-street parking.

Currently the majority of "regular" activities at EM are during "off-peak" periods.

Why are you beating a dead horse issue?

You write: Currently the majority of "regular" activities at EM are during "off-peak" periods.

The majority of regular activities at EM have always been at times when community members are not at paid 9 to 5 jobs and this is the time period that needs to be considered for maximum parking use.

Why are you so intent on supporting a building that does not answer the needs of a larger segment of the community?

Only the healthy and young have a right to using an Estonian community center?

Damned be the seniors with health and mobility issues who can still drive to an adjacent parking lot?

to: To FM

It would seem that you have never taken an individual to the EM at anytime that has mobility issues. Otherwise you would understand my original statements.

Where is the ONLY handicap assisted entrance at EM? How far and how long of getting to this entrance be if a mobility challenged (walker or wheelchair) would it take during the winter or say during a day long rain?

I believe that unless it was a very urgent issue, I suggest that this person would not even go to the EM.... Unless of course they could accomplish their business on the phone or via the internet.

I believe that there a accommodations for the "larger segment of the community"

My wife has extreme difficulties with her mobility. Yes I've dropped her off at the side door and rarely have been able to find parking in the back so I must find on street parking. Rarely has there been anyone willing to help her up those few stairs and she must make the attempt herself. Only IF I have found a nearby spot for parking.

If I want a spot in the back, my wife and I need to leave hours ahead of time. We live outside of the 416 so that also adds time to the drive.

If I go by myself I realize that I will have to park on the street, but that is because I wish to go the event.... we don't stay away because it's inconvenient parking. It's because we WANT to go.

There is (and always been) plenty of FREE parking at Jôekääru, Kotkajärve and Seedrioru.

For the last 10 years Seedrioru has even provided a shuttle down to the lauluvaljak for those with mobility issues. Unfortunately the 1000s of people that Seedrioru would welcome during Suvihari has dwindled into mere 100s.

So please explain to me why the numbers have dropped IF there is so much accessible parking at ALL of these venues?