Long-standing problem

It is amazing to me the ease with which some people can kiss off the problems of others with trite cliches, particularly when they don't have the foggiest idea of the circumstances or the seriousness of the situation. I refer to the "Go with the flow" letter to the editor of April 16 by Diane Jackson.

Problems for residents of Paula Avenue living between 40th and 44th Streets began in August 1997 with a proposed rezoning of 160 acres southwest of Foothill Boulevard and 44th Street. This was rezoned, over objections, to RV subdivision (two of whatever per lot).

The objections were mainly that there were no new roads planned for access to this development. It was obvious that existing roads were not adequate to serve a development of this size and residential destiny of this magnitude. As predicted at the time, Paula Avenue, a two lane dirt road, bears the brunt of this overwhelming flow of new traffic, now over 1,000 vehicles per day.

As this development was created, the residents were subjected to many long months of heavy equipment grading, levelling, regrading and incessant clouds of dirt. Then the predicted traffic began. Most of the trailers moved into that area were towed down Paula Avenue, followed by set up crews, brick trucks, brick layers, contractors, plumbers, air-conditioner installers, you name it.

This new traffic also contains a large number of speeders and reckless drivers. Racing engine noises and squealing tires are common. People on this street are not safe, and there have been several near misses at school bus stops by reckless drivers.

There has been severe property damage by these drivers. Five brick fences within 200 feet of Paula and 44th Street have been destroyed by hit and run drivers. One car went through a brick fence, tore the aluminum awning off the house and hit a dog kennel, destroying it and injuring the dog. My front brick fence was destroyed by a hit and run driver, costing me over $800. Don't tell me to "go with the flow."

There is nothing that compels residents of this street to put up with the lawlessness of others. We have the absolute right to seek relief through our elected officials to remedy these grievances, And if three new stop signs on Paula bothers anyone, I suggest they use Foothills Boulevard

EAMON MANN

Foothills