Traffic Is A Key Issue

To the Editor:

I am watching election day approach with excitement and enthusiasm. The candidates have a tremendous amount of work in front of them. Newtown has grown a great deal in a small amount of time and is facing problems typical of this rapid growth. There is a diverse population with numerous needs and limited resources.

Some of the key issues facing the candidates include Newtown traffic, the school system, and Fairfield Hills. Thanks to active parents and great teachers, the school system seems to be moving forward with exciting plans for the future. Less clear is the vision the town has for Fairfield Hills.

Traffic is the 800-pound gorilla in the room. The school system, commerce, and commuters cannot function without an effective traffic design. As we are all aware, Newtown was primarily a farming community with essentially country roads. At present it functions as a bedroom community for New York City and is aggressive in developing its own commerce. Routes 84, 25 and 34 all traverse through Newtown and provide access to south, north, east and west. It has a unique geographical location. With that privilege comes a tremendous amount of responsibility. How will the candidates balance the need for commercial traffic specifically in the form of trucks with the growing residential community?

I challenge each of the candidates to come up with an aggressive traffic plan that addresses the growing needs of Newtown.

Jennifer Papa Kanaan, MD

3 Quarry Ridge Road, Sandy Hook                             October 1, 2007