The Encore Boston Harbor in Everett, Massachusetts is proposing a gondola to bring visitors across the Mystic River from Somerville and Everett. The idea of an airborne cable car is running afoul of residents who want a footbridge.
On Facebook, Somerville Mayor Joe Curtatone posted this statement: “Of all the things I figured I’d never need to address in public life, gondolas have to rank near the top of the list.”
Encore counters that the gondola would be cheaper and faster to construct. “Our primary goal on any initiative that connects Somerville and Everett is to provide viable transportation options for our employees and guests,” said a spokesman.
Mayor Curtatone said a footbridge will accommodate more people and won’t just benefit the casino. “If you just need to get across a river, build a bridge,” he said on Facebook. “This isn’t rocket science.”
