LETTERS LETTERS (January 14, 2004)

Concerned about drivers near Gordon Ave.

Editor:

In a time of nationally heightened security concerns, I find myself more vulnerable to threats coming from within my own community. Yet unlike many of the threats we collectively face as Americans today, many local threats are for the most part fairly preventable.

I live in the unincorporated section of Menlo Park, near the Dutch Goose, where a few weeks ago a hit and run accident transpired. Fortunately no one was injured, but a neighbor's vehicle was severely damaged. The driver managed to flee the scene, swerving through many of the gravel parking spots located on one side of the road, before anyone could identify the vehicle. County sheriff deputies responded promptly and were thorough in their investigation; however, I continue to ask myself whether this accident was preventable.

With this in mind, we as a community need to take steps to reinsure our safety remains intact. I do not blame the local restaurants for serving alcohol to responsible people.

But in an area that is by no means littered with bars and late night activity, I question the lack of attention we receive from the county sheriff's department, which patrols this unincorporated area. I understand that living near a bar there are some occurrences, like loud music, that must be expected, but that is no reason to ignore bad drivers. If we want to continue considering this town a safe place, where children can play outdoors, and adults can feel free to leisurely walk their dogs and take bike rides, then something needs to change.

It must begin with the sheriff's department paying more attention to this obviously high-risk area by spending more time patrolling it.

Jason Marwedel
Gordon Avenue, Menlo Park

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