Editor’s Note: The following is in response to a ledditorial advocating removal of buses from North Baldwin Street that was published in the last issue of the newsletter.
Several weeks ago I read the published letter from Mike and Kelley Cory from a posting at a bus stop. This ledditorial was written most intelligently with well reasoned perspectives. As I read it I noticed several points missing because the writers own cars (or a car).
Those of us who have no other means of transportation have different challenges. It is extremely difficult for disabled people and seniors to walk two to three blocks carrying 10-20 pounds of groceries. Some folks have difficulty just getting on and off the buses or trying to cross streets in our "Indy 500" neighborhood as "WALK" has no meaning to turning cars.
Buses only travel down Baldwin once an hour and alternate with Fordem. There are extremely slippery areas on Fordem and icy hills to climb if this change occurred — most with no sidewalks.
Many working mother live in apartments nearby and take their babies, strollers, diaper bags and purses to day care centers.
Access to Tenney Park would change dramatically.
Metro Plus and paratransit are not available to just anyone. The fact that you’re a senior or someone with a medical problem does not allow you these services. It appears to me that it would be disabling to many people and limit mobility further for many neighbors.
Perhaps an alternative would be to route the buses down the street a block from Baldwin along Tenney Park. One side parking could be easily enforced and perhaps a shelter could be constructed. This was done during Baldwin street construction and it was well accepted.
In that way both Fordem and Sherman could be served and Tenney Park access remain.
Thank you for your consideration.
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