Wal-Mart traffic fears overblown

To the Editor,

In response to Ellie Jone's letter of 12-9-07, I was very surprise at her great concern for New York State Route 54 all of a sudden. I don't recall any concern when Simmons- Rockwell expanded about 4/5 times original size - or two restaurants, Lake View Apts. and a new beautiful VFW were built - all creating large amounts of additional traffic. The traffic of Rte 54 at this time warrants expansion now and has for a long time.

This 880 car increase per hour is ridiculous for any business created on Rte 54. If you know the area, Bath serves Prattsburgh, Avoca, Savona, Wayne,Bradford and Hammondsport, which closes up after Labor Day. The summer merchants close up, too, taking their summer profits, and "head" south for 6 or 7 months. Hammondsport shuts down for the winter. The population of these communities would not allow an additional 800 cars per week, not an "hour."

Ellie, you have grown up in Bath, part of a good family business. Over the years, you have, as I have, witnessed downtown Bath go "down hill" business after business. I don't recall hearing from you with ideas to halt this or to create a "Liberty Street of Yesteryear." Maybe you were in favor. Do you approve of that jungle on the upper end of West Morris Street?

We must remember Route 54 is the "Gateway to the Finger Lakes and Wine Country." Tourist, truck/car traffic and campers will increase and Route 54 will be reconstructed to meet the demands of this increase, and the increase created by a Wal- Mart Super Center.

As a life long resident of Bath, I will continue to support the want and need for a Wal-Mart Super Center in Bath.

Patricia Eaton Bath