(Ed. Note: The following letter was sent to Mayor Mary Ann Holzkamp and is printed here at the author's request.)

Thank you, to you and your staff, for taking the time to hold community meetings. This effort to address citizen concerns on a more localized level is commendable.

I am writing with regard to the proposed change of Taylor Drive to a one-way street. I am 100 percent in favor of any plan that would reduce through traffic in the Thompson/Colonial Park/Uplands vicinity. My concern with this proposal is that it is similar to sticking a finger in a hole to plug a failing dike. It may stop the flow from one source, but increase it twofold elsewhere. Without a comprehensive plan to address the problem, we could end up chasing leaks for years to come. Plugging holes and filling gaps piecemeal is not the best way to approach a problem like this. The entire traffic pattern in this community area needs to be assessed and a multi-pronged approach taken. The proposed change is a form of traffic redirection. My concern is the redirection will be to other areas of the community. Traffic redistribution and traffic calming measures should be incorporated, as well as limited restrictions to obtain less intense, more equalized traffic patterns in all areas of the neighborhoods affected, which would additionally act as a deterrent to through traffic. I understand that for safety reasons quick action is warranted. I am willing to accept quick action. I would, however, like it to come with a commitment from your office that should this one single change not achieve the 50 percent decrease in traffic that is anticipated by some, then a proper analyses of the four or five key locations and intersections in the area will be done. The Taylor Drive proposal may be a complete solution or just a good first step.

Lastly, I support your decision to have this issue heard publicly. Not because a few voices should influence the ultimate decision which must be made in the interest of the public as a whole, but for the fact that as many people as possible should be informed of the change so as to avoid a traffic ticket, or worse, an accident. Due to the steep slopes in the affected area, some of our senior residents may have difficulty negotiating the alternate routes during inclement weather. The same may hold true for those who don't have four-wheel drive. In that respect, public safety is and should be a consideration. Being a grandfather and pet owner, I have four very good reasons for being concerned with excessive traffic in this area. Please keep me informed of any progress in this area.

Wade G. Curry