Dear Councilmembers and Staff,
 
Thanks for reading this e-mail!  I know you probably get hundreds each week.
 
An issue that's dear to my heart is surfacing (or I should say "resurfacing").  It's time for some traffic improvements on Hagadorn.  With re-striping occurring in a few weeks, we have the opportunity for another "road diet."  (4 - 3 lane conversion with bike lanes).
(see http://www.re-news.net/walk/road_diets.htm )
 
While this may not be "by the book" -- it fits well with the other improvements you've done (Burcham, Grand River, etc.).  You deserve some praise for these efforts (and as you know, you're receiving some national attention for them).
 
As a resident who's supported environmental changes in E. Lansing for over 25 years, I'm particularly excited when economic, environment, and other social interests converge...
 
ECONOMIC...
In a survey of 13,000+ residents surveyed in a 2004 poll, of 30 attributes of places people most want to live:
Safe Streets was NUMBER 1
Walkable Streets was NUMBER 3
 
(see page ten of the full report at
http://www.coolcities.com/cm/attach/7DAC9167-89CF-46DB-834C-D2382ED19B15/Summary_Findings.pdf
 
With gas prices on the rise, many cities are more inclined to make themselves less auto-dependant.   It's good for business and it's good for the environment.  And it's great for HEALTH, WELL-BEING, and ENJOYMENT of LIFE.  But most important, it's good for the children.
 
Yes, it will take some more work to make this happen.
Nobody likes more construction delays.  Nobody like a change of plans.  Nobody like being told what do.  Nobody likes the calls from citizens who weren't informed or involved in the decision.  Yes, the transportation folks should have a say -- but so should the groups representing the disabled, housing, environment, youth, school, senior, recreation, health, and neighborhoods.
 
This isn't just a transportation issue!
 
Inviting feedback from residents from the Southeast Marble area, I received nothing but positive encouragement.
 
Thanks again for listening. 
 
LeRoy Harvey
1641 Mt. Vernon
www.leroyharvey.net