Letter to the Editor: Concentrate on improving Decorah's streets, not its sidewalks

(The following Letter to the Editor has been submitted by John Carver of Decorah):

"Helen and Fred Ronan traded part of the their farm for a neighborhood some 60+ yrs ago. Sidewalks were not a subject then ---until now.

Over the past six decades, Linden Street produced a neighborhood of children who were street smart and walked to school–buses didn't exist.  There have been no incidences because of the lack of sidewalks during all this time. The Linden Street hill has resulted in a crash course for first time bicycle riders with their first riding experience to the bottom of the hill. Only a scrape or two for the record!

Linden is one of the quieter streets with very little traffic. A plus for those walkers who need a steep hill for exercise.

A suggestion has been advanced whereby the road could be narrowed allowing for new sidewalk passage. This would avoid natural outcroppings and other obstructions. However, that simply puts the sidewalk back where it had been, in the street. And a narrower passage for cars. Not a real solution.

The old Linden Street "ski run" is just not an adaptable solution for sidewalks.  Time to let this area rest in its natural habitat.

P.S. Decorah streets need attention rather than sidewalks."