LETTER TO THE EDITOR | Design doesn’t matter, addressing a need does

Editor, It is frustrating to me to keep reading letters to the editor that suggest that people just need to “get fit” so they can go up and down Wharf Street on foot. They totally miss the fact that within our community there are many people who will never be able to become physically fit because they are elderly, they have medical conditions that compromise walking ability, they are injured or recovering from surgery, or they are in wheelchairs. They totally miss the fact that some visitors who come by boat may be relegated to sit on said boat instead of getting up the hill to explore Langley and other South Whidbey areas.

Editor,

It is frustrating to me to keep reading letters to the editor that suggest that people just need to “get fit” so they can go up and down Wharf Street on foot.

They totally miss the fact that within our community there are many people who will never be able to become physically fit because they are elderly, they have medical conditions that compromise walking ability, they are injured or recovering from surgery, or they are in wheelchairs. They totally miss the fact that some visitors who come by boat may be relegated to sit on said boat instead of getting up the hill to explore Langley and other South Whidbey areas.

Some kind of elevator, funicular, trolley on wheels or vans with wheelchair lifts will be both a commendable community service, as well as addressing the fact that the Wharf Street road access is too steep for many people. Parking doesn’t address the need, as there just isn’t enough parking down there, and never can be.

I agree with the recent letter writer who wrote, “we need to let go of the us versus them dialog.” I hope people come to the meeting with the spirit of listening, remaining friendly and open minded.

I really don’t care what choice the City of Langley makes so long as the need for mobility for folks of all levels is addressed.

LEANNE FINLAY

Freeland