On the evening of Wednesday, January 6, 2016 the Bristol Fourth of July Committee voted to eliminate most of the parade route section on Hope Street, altering the parade to just under 2 miles long. To all, this parade is more than just a historical event. This is an annual tradition between friends and family where people from all over the Country come to this beautiful, historic town to celebrate our freedom. Space on the sidewalk is already tight as it is. Cutting the parade just under a half mile will make things more crowded, not to mention create more tension while reserving a spot in the early morning. In addition, the elderly folks at both Benjamin Church Manor and the Veteran's home all have easier accessibility from the VFW and the corner of Chestnut and Hope. Is it fair to them to take away their accessibility all to make those who CHOOSE to march in our beloved parade happier? Although we do understand the committee feels as if this will be a better scenario for all those involved i.e.: performers, law enforcement, etc., we strongly disagree with this decision. If the heat is such an issue for those marching, they should be advised (as they usually are) of the extreme heat they could face and made sure to prepare accordingly. Please sign to send a message to the Fourth of July Committee that we respectfully do NOT agree with their decision. Please keep the parade route AS IS!