Since 1815 the town of Jim Thorpe has been built and has thrived because of local inhabitants who worked, built homes and supported businesses in Jim Thorpe. Yet today these local people are ignored and penalized by the greed that has overcome the area.

Tourists are touted and pampered to the detriment of the people who live here. And it is not just downtown, in my opinion, with one exception, eateries on 903 charge NY/NJ prices to capitalize on the tourist traffic. They do not care about the locals.

The only eatery that I know of that is part of the community is Dom N Ali. They fundraise for the local fire department, cater a dinner for them, and provide free fireworks on the 4th behind their restaurant.

I urge locals not to patronize the other eateries; you can drive a little out of the immediate area and still get PA prices.

According to the 7/15/25 TNonline, the town is only going to allot one 15-minute parking space near the library, you cannot do anything in the library in 15 minutes, are they afraid of losing parking fees?

Where is the benefit to the people who live here, pay taxes and supported the town before tourism and greed took over.

Shame on the leaders who are responsible for destroying our quaint town and slapping locals in the face.

Tourists are spreading to the other side of the river, parking where homeowners who do not have off street parking need to park.

Because of tourism many communities in the area have been invaded by short term rental property owners, some who do not live here. It is not unusual for a house to be rented by 3 -4 or more families who then flood the amenities of the community that the residents pay a stiff HOA fee to enjoy but cannot use. Not to mention the late-night parties and noise.

Tourism is not good for local people who live here but greed seems to rule. 

Susan Bulanda

Jim Thorpe