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A newspaper tradition is returning to the Citizen Tribune.

In decades past, going back to the early day of American newspapers, reporters would go out seeking “man on the street” opinions on the day’s news and more.

The issues could be of local, national or international interest and the papers would solicit local opinion.

Times have changed and connecting with people on the street has been frequently been replaced with social media.

As such, the Tribune – as it revives this traditional newspaper feature locally – is reaching out to its readership and the general public through its social media including Facebook, X and Instagram.

“Social media can be a lot of things,” said R. Michael Fishman, Lakeway Publishers president. “We want to help take that which social media can do well, which is help people express themselves, and amplify thoughtful responses. This isn’t about elevating gossip, rumor on innuendo, but about encouraging thoughtful, informed opinions.”

For the first question of the new effort, the Tribune focused on the issue of the removal of a small portion of the famous Downtown SkyMart to help clear the way for a massive new development in the space of the former Belk building, which burned in January of 2024 and has been an empty hole in Downtown since.

The section of SkyMart in question was a dead end, didn’t facilitate upper level walking and was a hindrance to the new development.

On Tuesday, the City Council heard and approved the request to allow for that section’s removal. Some opposed due to the SkyMart’s historical significance while others approved making way for develop.

We asked what people thought of the decision.

Here are some of the many responses.

Kim Still

“For new a business to come into the downtown area is a great opportunity for growth in the area. If we have to lose a small portion I’m ok with that. But thinking outside of the box, it would be a cool feature if it could somehow be a connection to the roof top bar.”

Amber Hickey

“It should not be torn down. This is a unique feature we have for downtown Morristown. They were put up before I was ever born. That’s the way I want to remember downtown going forward.”

Marie Harmon Hansen

“The one part he is removing makes sense after looking at the explanation it seems that he is from here and understands that this is what makes downtown special.”

Chad Huntsman

“I personally don’t like the overhead sidewalks. I think they totally take away from the architecture and charm. I would be in favor of taking them all down except the couple of crosswalks over Main Street. I would also close Main Street from Cumberland to Henry St. But that is just my 2 cents.”

Deborah Stephens

“We have steakhouses, hotels and shopping centers all across our town; we are but 2 cities in the United States to have overhead sidewalks. Used during our parades, to access upstairs businesses and many prom photos and family photos. We heard the same thing when the other end was torn down for a parking garage. Little by little our downtown is fading away and when its gone it will be just another dollar in someone’s pocket.”

Tony Anderson

“Tennessee Historical Commission

‘The mission of the Tennessee Historical Commission is to protect, preserve, interpret, maintain, and administer historic places, and to encourage the inclusive diverse study of Tennessee’s history for the benefit of future generations.”

Kelly Shockley

“I love that downtown has been revitalized and continues to be revitalized with updates but I, along with many others, love our overhead sidewalks. I’m a lifelong resident of Morristown and downtown is at the center of many of my memories throughout my life and I hope to make new memories with my family there.”

Mikaela Dee Phillips

“I live downtown, like my apartment is connected to the SkyMart and me and my daughter walk it daily. We have for almost 6 years now. The part they are wanting to remove has been gone for 2 and a half years now and that portion leads to nowhere. I am all for redoing old buildings and keeping the history of our town. With that being said when things are falling in and are structurally unsound I am all for a revamp to bring more business and commerce to our area. Having a portion removed will not be detrimental and I am super excited to see new businesses come to light that are also locally owned.”

Mason Fishburn

“The overhead SkyMart is a staple for downtown Morristown! I’m sure all of them are in needs of some sort of repair.

“Get with investors… make changes and repairs… re design them if needed in spots. But always, always keep the sky walks.

“City of Morristown should encourage investors and businesses to use the overhead parts of the buildings for businesses or apartments as I know some are already used for… but keep them and revamp where needed.”

Bobby Richards

“The Overhead SkyMart is not only a piece of Morristown history but a staple it’s one of the things no other town has and tearing it out due to damage or a redesign is truly a disappointment to Morristown history and heritage.”

Kim BlackTroup

“I’m in favor!!!!!! He is bringing a great new industry to our small town and only removing a portion of the SkyMart. Besides, if the new construction contains a hotel on 2nd and 3rd floors, no one wants people peeking into their windows while chilling in their hotel rooms! Cannot wait for the Cattleman’s Corner. Our downtown needs a breath of life! If it means removing a small piece of the SkyMart, go for it!!”