On May 13, 1902, the Lawrence World noted, “The order to pave Massachusetts Street made by the council last night marks the end of a hot fight and a stubborn one. It has always been hard to get improvements in Lawrence, but they finally come. The old town is a trifle slow but it is noted for getting there in time. The main street needed paving badly, but it is a fact that property owners have been put to large expense in this town and they are not to be so severely censured for their opposition. However, within two months, there will be such a unanimous sentiment in favor of the paving that we will forget that there was any opposition.”