In the wealthy California community of Carmel-By-The-Sea, long-time residents have lived without street addresses for over a century. Instead, homes and businesses are identified by names or descriptors, making navigation difficult, especially at night due to the lack of street lights. The town’s unique charm has been preserved by this lack of traditional street addresses, with residents describing their location based on landmarks or nearby intersections.
Despite the resistance from many residents, the city council has voted to move forward with a plan to assign street numbers to homes and businesses in Carmel-By-The-Sea. The decision was influenced by concerns from emergency crews who struggle to locate specific homes quickly, especially in the dark. Residents have also faced challenges with deliveries and services that require a physical address, leading to misplaced packages and wasted time searching for deliveries.
The debate over street addresses in Carmel has a long history, with ordinances requiring house numbering in the past being met with resistance from preservation-minded residents. The issue has resurfaced during the pandemic, as more residents rely on deliveries and online services. While some view street numbers as a necessary modernization for safety and convenience, others see them as a threat to the town’s character and charm.
Despite concerns about losing the uniqueness of Carmel-By-The-Sea, some residents welcome the idea of street addresses for the practical benefits it brings. Improved access for emergency services, deliveries, and transportation services are seen as important reasons to embrace the change. The city staff will develop a numbering plan to be approved by the U.S. Postal Service, with the decision ultimately resting on the outcome of the upcoming city council elections.
The issue of street addresses in Carmel remains a topic of contention, with residents divided on preserving tradition versus embracing modernization. While some see street addresses as an essential aspect of modern living, others fear it will detract from the town’s charm and communal spirit. The upcoming elections will determine the future direction of the town, as candidates vying for city council positions and the mayoral seat will influence whether street numbers will be assigned to residents in Carmel-By-The-Sea.
As the debate continues, residents grapple with the potential changes facing their beloved town. While concerns about losing charm and uniqueness persist, practical considerations such as emergency response times and delivery services are driving the push for street addresses. The outcome of the elections will determine the fate of this historic community and whether it will finally join the modern world with traditional street numbers.
