EFFORTS FOR PEDESTRIANS

Dear Ms. Dewing: I?d like to answer a question from your recent column in which you ask why so many elected officials consult with Transportation Alternatives regarding pedestrian safety (?A Café Closing on 79th,? Oct. 16). To be sure, TA does have a strong bicycle advocacy program, but we are also the city?s strongest advocate for pedestrians. TA?s ?Safe Routes for Seniors? program was the first initiative in the country to redesign streets in senior-rich neighborhoods to improve walking for the elderly. We have led dozens of community planning workshops and walk-throughs over the years, giving seniors a voice in planning their own streets. And working with Assembly Member Linda Rosenthal, we recently released a comprehensive Upper West Side ?Senior Pedestrian Safety Plan.? All these efforts mean real improvements, like longer crossing times, safer crosswalks and slower speed limits. This track record is why we have the ear of elected officials who care deeply about the safety of elderly pedestrians, many of which represent your neighborhood. Peter Goldwasser Transportation Alternatives Letters have been edited for clarity, style and brevity.