LETTER: Parkway column was inflammatory, cruel

To the editor:

I just can’t believe I’m writing another letter about Onondaga Lake Parkway. This letter is in reference to Russ Tarby’s opinion piece in the Dec. 18, 2019, issue of the Eagle Star-Review.

It’s difficult to know where to begin to dissect this piece! Just the “inflammatory” language used which is tinged with sarcasm is enough to have me writing again. All this refers to the planned changes to Onondaga Lake Parkway.

Quoting former Salina Town Supervisor, Ace Ward saying the “writing on the wall growing more legible over the years” as far as recreational uses for this road which is part of the park.

Bettering the quality of life through recreation is a good thing. Parkway Sundays, races, and the Lights on the Lake are and have been enjoyed by huge numbers of people. These events do sometimes cause inconveniences for traffic flow. I’m not sure about the county “pushing” for a beach at Willow Bay.

“Average Joes fret over increasing traffic while decision-makers remain focused solely on Onondaga Lake Park.” This assumes that there is a there is no agreement between decision makers and a majority of the public. “Average Joe.” Really?

“Pipe dream” used to talk about looping the lake. How many would have imagined the success of the improvements of the West Shore trail and the completion of the Amphitheater?

Certainly the most upsetting and even cruel comments are those by Ace Ward about the “red herring” statistics of the accidents on the Parkway. How awful to make such a reckless comment without considering the tragedies that have happened on that road! Tell that to the families who have suffered from loved ones being injured or even killed on that road!

The research indicates that the severity of the accidents is the most important issue that they are trying to correct by reducing the crossover accidents. My son was in a crossover accident on that road and I have been writing letters to everyone I could think of for 20 years. Fortunately, he survived. Our friends’ son did not in another crossover accident in nearly the same spot. Thank goodness they no longer live in the area so they are not being exposed to arguments for preferring convenience over safety! How awful for anyone to minimize the real dangers that exist on that road!

Change is difficult for many. Yes, people can leave earlier for work and appointments if they choose to use the Parkway. People can use Old Liverpool Road. Drivers can choose to be considerate, slow down, and allow for more time to get through the village.

I thanked the engineers that I met at the Chestnut Hill Middle School meeting. Finally, finally, finally, the safety of all who travel Onondaga Lake Parkway is taking precedence and has become the motivating force behind this plan!