City Officials Voicing Tourism Concerns

Some officials in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, are concerned that the city is becoming more of a tourist destination than a place for local residents to enjoy.

The Portsmouth Herald reports Economic Development Commissioner Ron Zolla said some local businesses are struggling, noting the recent closure of a longtime shoe store on Market Street.

Commissioner John Pratt, who also serves on the board of directors for the Strawbery Banke Museum, said there are "a significant number" of local residents at museum events and elsewhere. Like Zolla, he said the lack of parking is a problem downtown.

Commission member Joshua Cyr suggested supporting initiatives like Seacoast Local, which "engages businesses and community leaders to build a more local, green and fair economy on the Seacoast," according to its Web site.