The temptation of a hometown newspaper to be biased to the needs of its community is always strong, and in the case of Farmingdale Village's grant application for scenic improvements, it is irresistible.

The project, which proposes the creation of a bicycle rest station within a major Long Island bike path, as well as new brick sidewalks, ornamental lighting and trees for Conklin Street, can only be good for Farmingdale, and we support it.

It would encourage bicycling and walking, two modes of transportation that are an endangered species in the suburbs, and that are good for body, mind and environment. In addition, it would bring back a bit of the country charm that Farmingdale, a town rooted in a rural past, had prior to the post-World War II development boom. Against the backdrop of the sprawl of commercial Route 110 and mega shopping malls - as well as much of the same nationally - charm is good for the spirit of both the local community and America.

It is hoped that the federal government will look upon Farmingdale with the same favor when allocating grants under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century, the legislation through which the village is applying for the funds.

A.M.