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Home My WebLink AboutSupervisor William Kerr CorrespondenceRobert J. Mines Attorney and Counselor at Law 402 SAVINGS CfANK BUILDING ITHACA.NEW YORK 14851 Area Code 607 Telephone AR 2 6J6I January 4, 1964 William B. Kerr, Esq. Supervisor Town of Ithaca 108 West Green Street Ithaca, N.Y. Re: M« Jack Herman property Dear Bill: M. Jaclc Herman purchased the peters* property on Wednesday, December 30, 1954. As the new owner, he wishes to formally request a change in the Zoning Ordinance pursuant to Artcile IX. I believe that you have in your possession the general site plan submitted to you a few months ago. My client desires to construct the units in stages, the first project being the motel-restaurant with multiple residences to follow shortly, I understand that both the Planning Board and the Zoning Officers have been apprised of and have reviewed this request. We wish to have zoning which would accommodate development along the lines suggested in this general site plan. ly yours, RJHxdes CC: R. J. Wells Zoning Officer Town of Ithaca 108 West Green Street Ithaca, N.Y. M. Jack Herman 34 State Street Rochester, N.Y. GREATER ITHACA REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD 330 East State Street, Ithaca, New York City of Ithaca Town of Ithaca Village of Cayuga Heights February 6, 1964 Mr# Mlliam Kerr, Supervisor Town of Ithaca 132 Forest Home Drire Ithaca, New lork Dear Billj New Tork State has a program to assist municipalities in the sound planning of sewer systems. Financing of these studies is completely borne by the state. The intent of comprehensive sewerage studies is set forth in the attached report. It should be particularly noted that: 1. Studies are made independent of political boundaries so as to achieve the most economical plant in the long run. 2. Alternate solutions will be proposed along with capital costs and operating costs of each. 5* The compr^ensive study does not bind any municipality to adopt the CGQclusions of the report. The Regional Planning Board has contracted the State Department of %alth to find out how fast the state would act on our study. We have assurance that an application will receive top priority. It is conceiv able that an application submitted by March 6th would be processed by the middle of April. Engineering studies could COTimence immediately thereafter. In view of this opportunity the Regional Board urges that immediate action on Joint application and sponsorship of such a study be taken by the City of Ithaca, the Villages of Cayuga Heights and Freeville, and the Towns of Ithaca, Lansing, Dryden and llysses. To expedite this study we recomm^d: 1» That tentative boundries designated in the application be in accordance with the attached map. 2. That the administration of this study be carried out by a newly created Joint Municipal Survey Comnittee consisting of a represen tative from each participating municipality. r *llr» William Kerr, Supervisor Febrxxary 6, 1964 Town of Itliaca 5, That the Ithaca Town Board appoint a representative to this com mittee, preferably someone who is qualified to handle the engineer ing and technical problems involved# 4. That the Joint Municipal Survey Committee be authorized tot a) prepare an application for state funds to conduct the study; b) select a consultant to perform the study; c) to administer the study and direct the consultant; d) to report monthly to the Ithaca Town Board as the study progresses# 5# That the problems and needs of Cornell University and Ithaca College be made a part of the study. 6, fh&t the engineering firm of O'Brien and Gere, Syracuse, N. T. be employed for this study.® 7, That the study be canpleted by Dec. 15, 1964. The Regional Planning Board offers to cooperate fully with the Joint Municipal Survey Committee in the undertaking of this project. The Board strongly feels that a cooperative study, with the active participation of all municipalities concerned, is the only way to arive at woricable solutions to our long range development needs. Attached is a suggested form of resolution. We urge your immediate consideration. Sincerely yours, Robert Mueller, Chairman Greater Ithaca Regional Flaxming Board RMtbc Bnc# ® This is a well qualified firm already woricLng for the Town of Ithaca and Lansing and, thereby, having the advantage of prior knowledge of the problems of "ttie area. W'- • mt •■A ■ 4. >' - mm WHEREAS, the Tomi of Ithaca ifishes to Tjoidertake a comprehensive sewerage study of the greater Ithaca area pursuant to Section 1263-a of the Public Health Law; and WHEREAS, the Town of Ithaca wishes to jointly undertake said study with the City of Ithaca, Village of Cayuga Heights, Village of Freeville, Town of <So-|oiOUlysses and Town of Lansing; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT: 1* A Joint Municipal Survey Committee be fomed, pursuant to Section 259-n of the General Municipal Law, to make application for said study and administer and direct said study on behalf of the several municipalities* 2. 3,K-I4 o u i:-, h is hereby appointed as a member of the Joint(name)—^ Municipal Survey Committee with the power to act in behalf of the Town of Ithaca. 3« The exact limits of the area to be studied shall be detennined by the Joint Municipal Survey Committee in conjunction with the New Tork State Department of Health, Tompkins County Department of Health and the Engineer* ■ 'U > . - ^ ^ ;; .-v ■ • •- "■■■.I- ■ ■ , '"j -i J. BURCH McMORRAN SUPERtNTENDCNT \98l OFFICE OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR FLOOD CONTROL HORACE S. EVANS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR STATE OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS 1220 WASHINGTON AVENUE STATE CAMPUS ALBANY 26. NEW YORK April 3, 1964 Supervisor William Kerr Town of Ifhoco Ithaca Town Hall 132 Forest Home Drive Ithaca, N. Y. Dear Mr. Kerr: Reference Is made to our telephone conversation of yesterday regarding the Ithaca flood control project and my request that the Town of Ithaca adopt a resolution assuring loral participation in this improvement. I am pleased to send you herewith a suggested resolution. It will be appreciated If the Ithaca Town Board will consider and adopt it at the regular meeting April 13. It does not appear necessary to discuss features of the project or to point out that considerable funds will be expended In the Town and City of Ithaca during Its construction or to point out that this project will avert, when completed and in operation, untolled dam ages and perhaps loss of life from storms of major magnitude. Sincerely yours, HORACE S. EVANS . b cc: E. E. Towlson W. C. Welch Mayor Johns 4 Suggested Town Resolution for Participation In Federal Flood Control Pro|ect WHEREAS, construction of the Ithoco flood control pro|ect Is contingent upon State execution of a formol assurance of cooperation with the Federal Government, and WHEREAS, the Stote Is prepared to execute such assurance once It receives from the Town of Ithoco o formal assurance of local portlclpation, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Ithaca Town Board assures the New York State Depart ment of Public Works that It will participate as follows: 1. Furnish without cost to the State of New York any lands, easements and rlghts-of-way, title to which Is vested In the Town of Ithaco and which may be required for the project, 2. Assume responsibility for reconstruction, relocation ond protection ef facilities of all munlclpal ly-owned utilities. Including, but not limited to, sewer lines, water lines, streets, roads and bridges as required by the project, ond for cooperation In occordance with any ogreement governing utilities owned, mointolned or operated In joint venture with any municipality. 3. A«ume responsibility for Installation and maintenance of protective barri cades where necessary and r^ulred by the project, fitdd- cxl^er C Or>S"f r i_*cT I O 4. Asftime responsibility for adoption and enforcoment of such ordinances as may be necessary to prohibit dumping or encroachment In and upon tbe project. 5. Aso^me responsibility for controlling development In partially protected and fringe areos not Included In the project, but located within the Town, with o view to preventing on undue Increase In the flood damage potential. 6. Assume responsibility for ordinary maintenance of that section of the proj ect located within the Town, OtIN StWALL PrmNGItL. l% ,Oittctot Pbte* Paui. Kellogg, AnhtMt Dirtaor William C. Dilgek, Aniitamt Pinctor Douglas A. Lancaster. Aisiiiami Diwior Sally F. Hoyt, Adminiitrathi Aiiut4wl CORNELL UNIVERSITY LABORATORY OF ORNITHOLOGY Ithaca, N. Y. 14850 March 22, 1965 Mr, ViUlaa 6. Kerr 201 Savings Bank Building Ithaca, New York Dear Mr. Kerrt About two weeks ago a notice appeared in the Ithaca Journal to the effect that a well-known Ithaca builder would request the re-*oning of an area south of Sapsucker Woods between the sanctuary and Hanshaw road. The Uboratory of Ornithology wishes to go on record as being opposed to this proooaal by Mr. Lucente. We believe the re-Eoning of this area (where construction is now UjBlted to residential h^ies) to permit the building of apartanent houses is detrimental to one of Ithaca^s roost visited drawing cards. The Laboratory of Ornithology is a world-wide center for the 8tu(fy of birds. That it is an asset to the conmunity can not be denied in view of the facts: The cwmunity does not lend aqjr financial aid to the observatory or sanctuary except through the gifts of interested persons and organizationsj yet the community benefits from the services of the Laboratory and from the visitors attracted to it from all parts of the nation and foreign countries. Last year alone the Laboratory of Ornithology hosted roore than 20,000 persons. Aside from Its alms as an organiaation for research in bird study, the Laboratory provides a cultural center for its visitors. S^sucker Woods is a bit of unspoiled wilderness open for all those who enjoy nature, a quiet retreat. Now, yes. But for how long? Already the inroads of civilization have detracted from the sanctuary's serenity. An airport only one-quarter of a mile away will soon be the scene of regiaar Jet flights. Trucks Imber noisily along new Route 13 in full view of the observatory only 300 yards away. Several years ago Mr. Lucente placed before the Zoning Board V- of Appeals a proposal to re-zone an area vest of the sanctuaiT' so that apartanent dwellings could be constructed. The influx of a great nxunber of people in a limited and adjoining area has had a detrimental effect on the sanctuary. Children frequently climb over the fences^ and their dogs burrow beneath them. Now Mr. Lucente wants to build an even larger number of ^artments that will brtng well over 300 persons to an area inme<Uately south of the sanctuary. The sanctuary can not for long withstand such pressures wj.thout altering its goals and reducing its services. We believe the coninunity is Justly proud of Sapsucker Woods and regards it as an asset to the area. The well-being of the woods and its wildlife is in jeopardy if the proposal for new apartments is granted. We have been informed that continued and substantial financial support of the sanctuary by the Arcadia Foun dation is also in jeoparcfy if the proposal is granted. We urge that you give careful consideration to the statements of this letter, and that you will do what you can to see that the zoning of this area remains as it now stands — for residential hones only. Sinceraly your^ ' / r ^I Douglals A. Lancaster DAL/cw J. BURCH MCMORRAN • UPERINTENDeNT (\PR 09 1981 OFFICE OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR FLOOD CONTROL HORACE S. EVANS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR STATE OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS 1220 WASHINGTON AVENUE STATE CAMPUS ALBANY 26. NEW YORK August 12, 1965 Supervisor William B. Kerr Town of Ithaca Ithaca, N, Y,Re: Ithaca Flood Control Project Dear Mr. Kerr: This office has had correspondence with the Buffalo District Office of the Corps of Engineers relating to acquisition of flowage easements to prevent undesirable de velopment in flood plain areas. Copies of the correspondence and a map showing the areas are attached. The letters are self-explanatory. The Town of Ithaca and the City of Ithaca adopted resolutions, on April 13 and April 13, 1964 respectively, assuming responsibility for controlling development in partially protected and fringe areas not included In the project but located within the Town (City) with a view to preventing an undue increase In the flood damage potential. This is In Item 5 of the resolutions and in effect is a guarantee of proper zoning. You are requested to take whatever action is necessary to prevent development in accordance with your resolution. Sincerely yours, HORACE S. EVANS b cc: W. C. Welch E. E. Towlson Col. R. W. Neff O. m. ARMY ENGINEER DISTRICT, BUFFALO CORPS OF ENGINEERS ^OOT OF BNIOOl aTRBIT •UrRALO. NBW YORK MtOT NCBED j , irt*:!-27 July 1965 Horace S. Evans, Executive Director for Flood Control Department of Public Works 1220 Washington Avenue, State Campus Albany, New York 12226 Dear Sir: We have your letter dated 21 July, in response to dor 7 July flowa.-e easements at the jpstreamend of the local flood protection project on Cayuga Inlet at Ithaca. You have apparently misunderstood our reason for requesting these easements. They a re not intended to reduce damages on the property i-teelf, which is not now developed and which will not be protected by the project. The restrictions, on development, which would be assured by the easements, are necessary to assure proper functioning of the project as now designed, and should be considered part of the project. oKct absence of easements, development should take olace and H ^improved part of the channel, it is probable that thedesign flood would overtop the upper end of the levee on the east side a:^sure protection, if the area should beallowed to develop, it will become necessary to raise the levee and consequently to raise Elmira Road (Route 13) across the line of the In view of the reasons above, it is requested tnat flowage easements be obtained as described in our 7 July letter. Sincere]^ yours. Copy furnished: R. WILSON NEFF £ Earle E, Towlson, District En{p.neer Colonel, Corps of Engifeezs Syracuse, New York DisUict Engme« RBCBVSir^ JU1291965 BU, ABB HOU. B. B. BAVI»8 BOBBB M ^ cS July 21, 1965 Colonel R. V/ilson Neff, District Fngineer U. S. Army Fngineer District, Buffalo Corps of Fnglneers Sflb, n!^Y.^'T4M7 - AcquisiHonof riowage Easements in Unprotected Areas Dear Colonel: Refer^ce is mode to your letter of July 7 requesting easements be obtained over certain addi tional areas outst<fe the oroiect to restrict undesirable development. The subject has been re viewed by this office and also the Syracuse District office. Both agree that the tdw of restrictions in the so-called "floodway" and other zones is com mendable and ,s provided for in Item 5 of the City end Town assurances to the State as a ro t er of zon.ng. This item provides that the City or Tovrn will "assume responsibility for can- trolling developer ,n partially protected and fringe areas not included in the protect with a view to preventing on undue increase In the flood damage potential" Under the existing Flood Control Law, the Superintendent of Public V.orks is without authority to acquire easements or other rights outside the area of the flood control proiect or over un detected areas. It is pointed out thot some 50 acres ore involved and even though authority for ocquisition of easements or other rights existed, the costs could be prohibitive. In view of the foregoing, you are advised that the State will rely upon the good fdith and the wiw edmindtration ^ the City and Town to properly zone the areas as they hove previously indicafed fhey would do. / r Sincerely yours. HORACF S. EVANS B S. ARMY KNOINCKR DISTRICT, BUFFALO CORPS OF KNOINEERS POOT OP ■Miool OTfiirr •UPPM.O. MCW YOflK MM? MPMT*; NCBED 7 July 1965 H* S. Evans, Executive Director for Flood Control Departaent of Public Works State Campus, 1220 Washington Avenue Albany, Nev Tork 12226 Dear Sir: In view of the possibility of development of the Cayuga Inlet flood plain in the vicinity of the upstream end of the local flood protection project, we have considered the need for placing restrictions on future development in order to assure proper functioning of the project. The levee on the east bank was designed on the assumption that the valley, upstream from the drop structure, would remain in its present condition of limited ievelopment. With a slight increase in the top elevation at the upstream end of the levee, development can be permitted in accordance with the restrictions outlined below. Any further degree of development could raise the water surface, in the design flood at the upstream end of the levee, so much that protection could be provided only by raising both the levee and Elmira Road (Route 13) at the end of the levee at a cost which probably could not be justified. The proposed restrictions would cover two separate zones shown on the inclosed map, and would be established by obtaining flowage easements. In the more restricted (floodway) zone, marked "Easement A", extending fron the upper end of the project channel to the Lehigh Valley Railroad right-of-way between the lines marked "floodway limit," including the present channel and areas on both banks, no new fills, buildings or other obstructions to flow would be permitted. This area is now, and will continue to be, subject to frequent flooding. Boundaries shown are approximate, "Kie other area, marked "Easement B," lies west of the floodway and includes a triangular area upstream from the levee between the present railroad track and the easement for the detour track. In this area, no new fill would be permitted above elevation 35*7 (present elevations range BUY AND HOLD U. S. SAVINGS BONDS NCBED H. S. Evans, Executive Director for Flood Control from 392 to 396 east of the railroad, and from 397 to k02 west of the railroad), and buildings would be limited to half the width of the area. Building widths would be measured as the projections of their extremities on lines at right angles to the center line of the east-bank levee. A third area, marked "Easement C," would permit placing fill east of Elmira Road, if later surveys should find it to be necessary. It is requested that easenents be obtained, for the areas, and containing the terms described above. Sincerely yours. 1 Incl as p « , . ^ WILSON NEFFCopy furnished: p. , « . E. E. Towlson, District En<;ineer P Enoinews Departnent of Publis Works Enoin»« 333 East Washington Street Syracuse, New York w/incl liJ ? 1 RECBVn I I JLIL9 1965 EXECUTIVE DIREaOB fOR FLOOD CONTROt UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE FEDERAL EXTENSION SERVICE WASHINGTON O.C. 20250 €t^u£ August 27, 1965 Mr. William B. Rerr 512 Cayuga Heights Road Ithaca, New York Dear Mr. Rerr: I am doing a study of rural zoning for the Federal Extension Service this summer. The objective is a pamphlet or manual containing guide lines for county agricultural extension staff and laymen who may be charged with the responsibility of conducting educational programs about rural zoning. In doing it, I am especially concerned with the distinctions between the counties or towns which have approved rural zoning and the counties or towns which have failed to approve it or have repealed it after adoption. I understand that the town of Ithaca has experienced a zoning controversy, so your comments on the enclosed questionnaire shall be most appreciated. It would help in my interpretation if you would indicate the proportion of the town's population that is rural. If you know of any other persons who might give me additional information, I shall appreciate having their names and addresses. (This includes opponents as well as supporters of rural zoning). In the use of the data from this questionnaire, your replies to questions will be kept in strict confidence. Neither your name, the name of any individual mentioned, nor the name of the town of Ithaca will be used in the publication. You need not sign the questionnaire if your prefer. I much appreciate your assistance in this matter. Sincerely yours, William J. Block, Professor North Carolina State University Consultant, Division of Resource Development and Public Affairs, FES WJBtcs Enclosures J. BURCH McMORRAN SUPERINTENDENT ^ j •■■■ar ■ -'.rAx n. (S^PR 09 OFFICE OF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FOR FLOOD CONTROL HORACE S. EVANS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR STATE OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS 1220 WASHINGTON AVENUE STATE CAMPUS ALBANY 26. NEW YORK November 5, 1965 t yv> > Supervisor William B. Kerr Town of ithoco Ithaca, N, Y.Re: Ithaca Flood Control Project Flood Plain Zoning Dear Mr. Kerr: On August 12, 1965 copies of correspondence between the Army Corps of Engineers and the State of New York, relating to undesirable development in flood plain areas, were transmitted to you, A mop delineating the areas was attached. Recent inquiries from the Corps of Engineers stress that they would like a confirmation from you indicating your awareness of the problem and your willingness to take the necessary steps to prevent development, in the delineated areas, which would impede flow into the new channel. Very truly yours, HORACE S. EVANS W. C Associate Civil Engineer b cc: E. E. Towlson Colonel R. Wilson Neff r : ' |\PR 09 108 East Green Street 1^50 Hovember 12, 1965 State of Now York Department of Publio Works 1220 Washington Avenue Albany 26, New York Re I Ithaca Flood Control Flood Plain zoning Mr. H.S. Evans, Executive Director Dear Sirs Your letters of August 12, 1965 and November 5, 1965 received and acknowledged. Adequate precautions have been taken to insure proper development, or to restrict development where necessary, in the Flood plain area according to the map received delineating the various easement areas. We have also been in contact with other agencies, City and Regional planning Boards, and with representatives of known interested developers, advising of these restrictions. It is our latent to abide by our resolution as passed and including your requests regarding these easement areas. Very truly yours, William B. Kerr, Supervisor RJVi ja ''i. 7 r k * by Robert J. Wells Zoning Officer, Building Dept. : r ^ // V. • 3 > £ .■/ . i f ^ s "v C. H. STUART & CO., INC ESTAB4.ISHEO l(«9 AREA CODE SIS DE 1-1580 October 3, 1966 Mr. Mn. B, Kerr, Supervisor Town of Ithaca 108 E, Green St. Ithaca, New York 14850 Dear Mr. Kerrt As you may judge from the enclosed letters, I have long been daeply inter ested in the Laboratory of Ornithology at Cornell and the typefprogram it is carrying on. This development has been made possible by private contributions, assisted by Cornell University, Much time and effort has been spent by Staff Menbers and others to pave the way for still greater future contributions to enable the Laboratory to accomplish even more in encouraging the study and enjoy ment of birds for both the layman and the professional Ornithologist. Any real estate development as proposed will certainly jeopardize the future of the Laboratory of Ornithology. As a conscientious public official we know this matter is of concern to you. We will be grateful for your careful investigation of all the facts and for a position to uphold the present zoning laws. Thank you. Sincerely, TSK/ew / T, S. Knight End. -Kt-Tf,, ,)^OMPKINS COUNTY >«» TRUST COMPANY MO NORTH TIOGA STREET, ITHACA, NEW YORK 1 4 8 50 C E. TREMAN Pretidenf October U, 1966 Mr, William B. Kerr, Supervisor Town of Ithaca 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York lliS^O Bear Bill: For many years I have been very much interested in the development of the Sapsucker Woods Sanctuary and for several years have served as a member of the Administrative Board of the Laboratory of Ornithology. There fore, it is in a dual role that I bring to your attention a situation which may adversely affect the Sanctuary in the years to come. It is my understanding that Rocco Lucente has submitted to the Planning Board of the Town of Ithaca a proposed plan for re-zoning the property adja cent Sapsucker Woods. The plan would re-zone frcan R-l5 (residential housing) to multiple residence the area north of Hanshaw Road, west of Sapsucker Woods Road, east of Salem Drive, and south of the Laboratory of Ornithology in Sapsucker Woods. Lucente has already built l8 multiple-unit structures along the west boundary of the Sanctuary. This has greatly increased the number of people living near the Sanctuary. The new Lucente plan, if approved, would create the same problem along the south boundary of the Sanctuary. This cannot help but detract from the approaches to the Laboratory and, more importantly, it would make the Sanctuary less attractive for bird life. The Laboratory of Ornithology is a unique attraction which brings to Ithaca hundreds of visitors every year who would not otherwise come to our ccmimunity. It has an international reputation idiich should be enhanced by the development of its resources. In my opinion it would be most unfortunate for an exception to be made for Lucente idiich is likely to have a detrimental affect on the usefulness of the Laboratory to Cornell University and to the comimmity. The area surrounding the bird sanctuary is not the only acreage ^diich Lucente could devote to the multiple-unit construction he proposes. I strongly urge the Planning Board and the Town Board to deny the Lucente request. I am quite sure that the other members of the Administrative Board of the Laboratory of Ornithology feel as strongly as I do that the Sapsucker Woods area should be preserved in its present state. Sincerely yours. 0. E. Trenan, Jr« CET:lpr President -2- The Eastern Heights developers are to be commended, on the other hand, for the way in which they are planning to preserve as much of the natural growth as they possibly can. On the other hand, I think it is the respon sibility of the town to make sure that the type of construction done at Eastern Heights to date be stopped. I feel this emphasizes the need for a building inspector in the town to assure that the contractors and developers conform with the state laws and also build a quality house. I would be most happy to discuss this with you in further detail during the latter part of August^'in hopes that something might done. I frankly, at this time, could not or would not recommend this particular development or anyone like it to any newcomers here at Cornell University until such time as the developers change their policy and improve the quality of materials and the quality of workmanship. Sincerely, Alan W. Morrison, Jr. 1542 Slaterville Road Ithaca, New York C: Mr. Noel Desch Signed in Alan Morrison's Absence Whiton Powell m ^ 1205 Hanshaw Road, Ithaca, New York 14850 April 16,1969 Mr•William B. Kerr,Supervisor 512 Cavuga Heights Road Ithaca,N«Y. Dear Bill*- I am writing you once again concerning the property on the South-East comer of Hanshaw and Warren Roads,and its present condition|- it worsens weekly* I can understand how a property where a variance was allowed when zoning was established(because of previous use?in this case a business in a later residential-zoned area), but I cannot understand how this allows further increasing variance* I am told the "garage'v/as built in violation of a zoning-variance request* Last suamer a sheep was kept in the front yard and the back yard is rapidly becoming an auto end truck "grBveyard"*It seems apparent that the yard is being used intermittently as a way-station on a junk trucking route* This is evidenced by the frequent parking,in the yard, of from one to three large trailers,sometimes empty and sometimes loaded with scrap metal* Properties just across the street must be rapidly decreasing in value in an otherwise rising-value neighborhood;^ only see it as we drive past*they have to live with it continuously* Surely something can and must be done to prevent further continuing deterioration and to bring the property back to "pre-zoning" status,at least* It is to be regretted that the then-neighbors once objected to the sale of the property for a multiple dwelling unit,but it is difficult for me to accept the theory that now,several years laterHnothing can be done"* Sincerely, copies totV*DelRo880 Harry Baker Andy McElwee Jane Harris Noel Desch Walt Schwann if,-" n \q} Ithaca City School District 22 September 1969 Mr. William Kerr Supervisor, Town of Ithaca 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York .14850 Dear Mr, Kerr: I have heard that the Town may accept new roads in the Eastern Heights Development (off Snyder Hill Road) in the hear future. When roads are accepted and maintained, for year round travel, the school district intends to re-route buses serving the area as follows: The bus, proceeding west, will turn south and use Sharlene Drive, Eastern Heights Drive, Joanne Drive and Regency Lane - then turn west again on Snyder Hill Road. This may be reversed at some future time or be modified as other roads are developed. The re-routing of the school bus will eliminate the need for children congregating at the corner of Regency and Snyder Hill Road. I urge the Town to accept these roads, and assume that such action will not financially burden all Town taxpayers with under road utility line construction, when such are installed. Yours truly. L. William Banner Assistant Superintendent LWB:bc CC: Mr. George Ruggles Miss Louise Wilson Mr. Edward Riley, Town Clerk Mr. Andrew McElwee, Town Councilman Mr. Noel Desch, Town Councilman Mr, Victor Del Rosso, Town Councilman Mr. Harry Baker, Town Councilman •> -• CITY Of ITHACA 14150 400 LAKt STREir ¨ ' ' • 274.2121 NEW YORK FINAL mm Ithaca City School District 22 September 1969 Mr. William Kerr Supervisor, Town of Ithaca 108 East Green Street Ithaca, New York 14850 Dear Mr. Kerr: I have heard that the Town may accept new roads in the Eastern Heights Development (off Snyder Hill Road) in the near future. When roads are accepted and maintained, for year round travel, the school district intends to re-route buses serving the area as follows: The bus, proceeding west, will turn south and use Sharlene Drive, Eastern Heights Drive, Joanne Drive and Regency Lane - then turn west again on Snyder Hill Road. This may be reversed at some future time or be modified as other roads are developed. The re-routing of the school bus will eliminate the need for children congregating at the corner of Regency and Snyder Hill Road. I urge the Town to accept these roads, and assume that such action will not financially burden all Town taxpayers with under road utility line construction, when such are Installed. Yours truly. L. William Banner Assistant Superintendent LWB:bc CC: Mr. George Ruggles Miss Louise Wilson Mr. Edward Riley, Town Clerk Mr. Andrew McElwee, Town Councilman Mr. Noel Desch, Town Councilman Mr. Victor Del Rosso. Town Councilman Mr. Harry Baker, Town Councilman CITY OF ITHACA 14850 400 LAKE STREET 274-2121 NEW YORK /'fr, i)i ill 'A Ca. ~7^ ^ ^ ^ n i-jMi";4 Mo. 6, /f/f rZ/f Ce /(2^e dHS , '' V >•' 1;^ 'i /, /^-T f^ee>? 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S^^^iT/ Y''c. jYo/&/f<n^ <s/^ /^e <J^( tto/fce C(P^ />^ Yic^e<M»*t'f'eY^^~ft(_f 7^/?^ 1^(7 j^iyesei^i^ C^oyuc^ Afrv l/^ ^ l<Ji//i »^/f<?Cf 7/^ Yi'Cif-rs 4lf~ .^. j- myi S(lc4 ^ ^nfioryYZ^t<r(^s. a y~ •' .4. r^il'iTTrf:^ll^^frt^l■^^^■^l ■■miiii m m mi imnm im bSttii 1 % ( :—^ -r—— aMfeimililillM WIWiillHIIIIIKMI. j - !—7—— :• • v,r ^ ■i: ■■ k '•f'.Ui Vi ''^'' -if.;^T-T-r--v4 I* -?» r . >• ., . f M' JV, i.t:?"""T"^,.T I- ;"^ if r— .', ■ . : i - .'4' :i—^ ••• —•-+.. ^-. / / r^t.' -''H, , —Jl. v.: -f . ; ' ■ ■■ %•-■-;'■ V -^L i: V aL., '■ ' '. !. ■ ? " •i >i- ' ••.. ;■ ■■ - i • :'■ , >; .f. ■; . " .v' r- UijL4li-_.--- : V T" ;;■■'■ 7'-T----^-'^""-:;^*H"^---r .• •' , ■•!.' •:;,. V •• vv 1:^4--v:: i - IlI:-' ■ "■; r. .. ..,.,. 'V; M "t ■"■■■ - i l"T y:>/JC>7 /^O/hi'J'dJc S'^ 'tj Oj xj>T- r i B- Ic^nvi L 'tt U^ RICHARD L. UBOrr 414 Winthrop Drive Itheca. New York 14850 ? h ^■ Ma ■ t^^eAA ijUH. OUAjui^ ^ SmO^ UMtc-k >tn^ ^ ^ a, "-ft ■ ^ ^ V. s-yM. k. /1^ Hh^. "1 l!5; ■'.j !»r y STATE OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS J. BURCH McMORRAN SUPERtNTENDENT EARLE E. TOWLSON, DisT. ENG. 333 e. WASHINGTON ST.. STRACUSE. N. Y. 1330i COUNTIES IN 3RO DISTRICT CAYUGA CORTLAND ONONOACA osweco SENECA TOMPKINS WAYNE SYRACUSE. N.Y., July 26, 1965 195R Tompkins County Mr. V/m. 3» Kerr, Supervisor Town of Ithaca 512 Cayugs Heights Road Cayuga Heights, New York Dear Sir: The state highways on Route and Route 393 in Tort^kins County are to be abandoned to Tompkins County. As these highways will be County roads, there will no longer be a need for retaining the route niunbers. However, before the route numbers can be removed, it is the State's policy to determine local opinion relative to their removal. Therefore, we request your comments and approval for the elimination of Routes and 393 ss soon as possible. Generally the County assigns its own numbers to the County roads. If the route numbers are retained, it would be the responsibility of the County to maintain the signs. Very truly yours, E. E. TOWLSON District Engineer CFStkam cc; VL Hafermalz ... ^•r"\'-'\' ,v .^ i. ••>-^'-'--.-'--'jfeV. ' .•« '. ' n ••; .'■■' .'." ■''' *. '."'_ •'.• ^ - 1 • il' •■ "f. .. :■$«»"•', ••:" " ■<'; ■ "-• ^'S-' ^ .4 •• - ''s' • '' .' •> •' ' ' •'V- J ■^r '•* '• • /;^'- ■- \ -• iJ. i fifcamiji r» 1966 Iftr* v. B. Ktrr, S^ptrvliar .Tom of ZthiM 108 B. Orms 8t* Xtbaca, B. 7« Bmt IBr* Bnv} Z mdmtaad that a pngpoBaX tma ham mU %a plaM thtof ¥Bar described ia the deede of the mdomood end WrwhaarpeopeHlee en auehoir Road 00 the 9oi» of Zttoaa mv. fills dotehot aam dealrable et this tlM elaee the descrlptlflB of thetaMkaer lot in the ebetnet end deed does not ecree oith the tax am Iddeh has been reeeaUy eade trm aero anope. AmafHiBte ehoold be nade this year for a re-mrvey* dfteorthe aitoallea is cleared vtp, coaalderaticn can be glTeB to ir^T**gthe right ef mar on the fom of Zlhaea Bep« 1018 Bmd Ithaca. V. T. •■ , , , .i V-: H m '•■i A-.V^. vOto^W/-.. w mm Otkaea QUif. SaUool 3>Ui>Uci L. WILLIAM BANNER, Assistant Superintendent 19 October 1966 Mr. William B. Kerr Town of Ithaca Supervisor Savings Bank Building Ithaca, New York 14850 Dear Bill: The Safety Committee of the Northeast Elementary School Parent Teachers Association seeks some changes in vehicular traffic rules to better protect pedestrians on Warren Road between Hanshaw Road and Route 13, The request seems reasonable and makes sense, but they are having trouble finding the person \dio has the responsibility for change. I have been led to believe that you are that person. The changes desired, which I agree with, are listed below: -1- Reduce speed of traffic from 40 to 30 miles per hour. -2- Paint large lines across the road at the Winthrop entrance and at the crosswalk where students will cross Warren Road clearly indicating a pedestrian crossing. -3- Post large signs each side of the crossings indi cating the cross. One sign suggested is the standard "Stop for Children in Crosswalk." Anything you can do to accomplish the desired goals will be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, L. William Banner Assistant Superintendent for Business LWB/dp CITY Of ITHACA 14850 400 LAKE STREET 274-2121 NEW YORK <:) T n -7- s. Mr. L. William Banner Aseistant Superintendent Ithaca City School District 400 Lake Street Ithaca, New York October 20, 1966 Dear BUI: I received your letter of October 19 pertaining to various changes in vehicular traffic rules on Warren Road between Hanshaw Road and Route 13. 1 know that the members of the Safety Committee, and X thought that you also knew, that 1 am not the person responsible for the changes as you indicate. The County Highway Superintendent informs me that he has discussed the problem of signs with Ralph Jones. The sign you suggest in paragraph 3, "Stop for Children'Crosswalk", is an illegal sign. It would, however, be permissible to use signs saying, "School Crossing". The Highway Superin tendent of Tompkins County follows the State Rule which says in essence that the interested party, in this case the School District, wiU purchase, erect, and maintain aU such signs. It further states that if the signs are not properly maintained the Highway Superintendent should remove the same. Howard Stevenson has informed Ralph Jones that he wUl grant the School a permit to erect "School Crossing" signs and will assist in fereoting the same. 1, therefore, suggest that you immediately purchase the appropriate "School CDOssing" signs and have Ralph Jones contact Howard Stevenson who will have the same erected. While the Village of Cayuga Heights presently uses "Stop for Children^/^ Crosswalk" signs, these signs are no longer authorized by the New York State Traffic Commission. Howard Stevenson also informs me that he will be very glad to cause large lines to be painted on Warren Road when the School District constructs theirs sidewalk on the Heasley property. I understand that you are at this very moment acquiring title to a lot which will permit you to build your portion of the sidewalk. Therefore, when your walk is constructed X suggest you have Ralph Jones contact Howard Stevenson to have the lines painted. ; n Mr, JL, William Banner Page 2 October 20, 1966 The stated speed is a long standing problem. 1 am sure you are aware' the State has just recently completed a restudy of this area and has in fact raised the speed from 35 miles to 40 miles per hour. Unfortunately, neither the School District, County, or Town have any control over thesrecommended speeds. They are solely determined by the New York State Traffic Commission and an appropriate order entered. The entire northeast area, with the exception of Warren and Hanehaw Roads, is presently under an area speed zone. This took several years of study and restudy and was very frustrating. Even though the State has just recently completed a study and raised the speed on both Warren and Hanshaw Roads, Mr. Stevenson states that he will join with the Town in requesting another reappraisal. It is conceivable that the addition of the walkways.and the purchase of the Heasley tract for a new school, might influence the State Traffic Commission to lower the speed. The walkways should be most helpful as they tend to channel the people from the interior across Warren Road. The State's basic policy is based on density and it does not feel that there is sufficient density on Warren Road to merit a speed of less than 40 miles per hour. Nevertheless, we will try. There is one other thing that you could do that would be most helpfiil in this area. That is to write the Sheriff and request more intensive patrolling during the School hours. It is my opinion that enforcement is actually more valuable than the stated speed. You might have noticed that I have requested that more Sheriff Deputies be employed for purposes such as this. The Sheriff has responded by including four additional Deputies in his preliminary budget for next year. 1 find that many of the Supervisors oppose his request. Therefore, it would be most helpful if you would write and lend your support in this regard. I hope the above information will tend to clarify the situation. I will notify you of the decision of the State Traffic Commission on the new speed limit. Sincerely yours. WBK/ccr William B. Kerr cc: Howard Stevenson Supervisor STATE OF NEW YORK iii'lfiialil DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES COMMISSION CHS VINCENT L. TOFANY CHAIRMAN CHAS. E. WALSH, JR. ARTHUR CORNELIUS, JR. Arso Co<l« 518 474-7501 STATE TRAFFIC COMMISSION llovo a. maeder CHIcr THAPrtC ENOINCCR 800 NO. PEARL STREET, ALBANY, N. Y. 12206 division op trappic cnginccrino March 3, I967 in rcrly ripcb to Tompkins/lthaca Mr. William B. Kerr, Town Supervisor Town of Ithaca Tompkins County, New York Dear Mr. Kerr: This concerns your letter relative to our re-evaluation "of "the ifO MPH speed limit oh Warren Road.- In our previous letter, the reason we suggested uniforms for the crossing guards was that such uniforms would probably have a psychological effect upon the students and might induce them to be more receptive to the instructions of the crossing guards. Although • the crossing guards presently have rain coats and hats, we feel that uniforms with identifying insignia, would improve the behavior pattern. Regarding the function of the crossing guards, there are numerous facets of the sit^tion which are not obvious when first considering the problem, t^ile it is possible to deputize these people, thus giving them authority for law enforcement, we strongly urge that these crossing guards attend a course of training before being deputized. Without adequately preparing the crossing guards for the responsibilities which they assume when they undertake the duties of directing traffic, the school system would be providing the possibility of legal repercussions resulting from ar^ accident which might "occur while these ghards.are on duty. Bdcause the school does not abut Warren Road, the use of SCHOOL signs on Warren Road is not permitted by the Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices. However, the SCHOOL ZONE sign is to be used, when traffic cohditiohs warr^t, on a highway"which"!^ used by a' sub stantial number of children on their way to and from school. There fore, SCHOOL ZONE signs may be used along Warren Road. Section 235-^ of the Manual prescribes the use of this sign. I trust that these comments will prove helpful to you. Very truly yours, STATE traffic" COMMISSION VINCENT L. TOFANY Chairman BY: ADT/ch ^LLOYD A. TOEDER 'chief Traffic Engineer February 27i 1967 Liloyd Maeder, Chief Traffic Engineer State Traffic Commission 800 North Pearl Street Albany, New York 12206 Re: Re-evaluation of 40 mile speed limit on Warren Road, Town of Ithaca Dear Mr. Maeder: ¨ I am in receipt of your letter dated February 17 concerning the above captioned matter. While your reasons for not lowering the speed limit are perhaps technically correct based on the assumption that traffic tends to set its own speed, the 30 mile per hour limit would make enforcement considerably eas^r. You undoubtedly know that law enforcement officer, even those using radar, do not give out tickets unless the posted speed limit is exceeded by anywhere between five and ten miles per hour. This situation undoubtedly results from the fact that police justices do not hand out substantial fines unless the speed limit has been exceeded by approximately ten miles per hour. The net result is that a posted 30 mile speed limit actually becomes a 40 mile limit. Therefore, if the posted speed limit is 40, as is presently the case on Warren Road, the effective speed limit becomes 50. It would thus seem that lowering the limit would be most beneficial. Your letter indicates that crossing guards are perhaps the most effective protection for children. You also state that they should be supplied uniforms. The present guards have rain coats and hats. Your letter further states that your field personnel indicate that the guards should be aware that their primary function is the control of students rather than the direction of traffic. The PTA group studying this problem would disagree with this conclusion. Thejrfeel strongly that the crossing guard should have a status, preferably as a deputy sheriff, which woxild permit him to direct traffic and, if necessary, give tickets to violators. My main reason for writing you, however, is the information contained in the fourth paragraph of your letter which states that your office encourages the use of SCHOOL CROSSING and SCHOOL ZONE signs in situations similar Mr. Lloyd A. Maeder Page Z February 27, 1967 to that which exist along Warren Road. The County Highway Superintendent has continually advised us that the State would not permit the use of either SCHOOL or SCHOOL ZONE signs on Warren Road because the Northeast School does not abut Warren Road but rather is on Winthrop Drive. Therefore, I am writing to inquire if either SCHOOL or SCHOOL ZONE signs could be erected on Warren Road as you indicate. I am sure that the erection of either or both of these signs would go a long way to remedying the existing situation. Looking forward to your reply on this question, I remain, Sincerely yours, WBK/ccr William B. Kerr, Supervisor t' I ' ,..y March 16, 1967 Howard Stevenson Tompkins County Highway Superintendent Tompkins County Court House Ithaca, New York 14850 Re: Use of School Zone signs on Warren Road, Town of Ithaca. Dear Howard: Ab per our conversation yesterday, I am enclosing herewith a copy of the letter from Lloyd A. Maeder in which he states that School Zone signs may be used along Warren Road pursuant to Section 235.4 of the New York State Traffic Manual. / I am sure the erection of these signs would go a long way toward correction of the traffic situation. Sincerely yours, William B. Kerr WBK/ccr Supervisor Mr. Kerr; 6/19/68 Howard Stevenson would like to have excerpts from the enclosed printed in the Journal or have the whole letter published. He feels it would answer a lot of the questions that come to his office as well as ours. He has a carbon copy of the letter but wanted me to check with you first to see what your reaction might be. I am sending the letter along to you_ so you might review it and give Howard your opinion. Thanks. STATE OF NEW YORK /DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 1220 WASHINGTON AVENUE • STATE CAMPUS • ALBANY, NEW YORK 12226 J. BURCH McMORRAN COMMISSIONER TRAFFIC ENGINEERING AND SAFETY DIVISION CHARLES E. BESANCENEY DIRECTOR December 196? Tcmpkine/lthaca Williaa B* Kerr, Supervisor Tovm of Ithaca 10B E, Green Street Ithaca, New loric 1AS50 Dear Hr, Kerr: This is in reply to your letter of September 19 concerning traffic c^ditions on specified highways in the Tovm of Ithaca* We subsequently received a joint request for reduced speed limits on Bundy, Hayts, DuBois, and Trumansburg Roads, signed by the town clerk on September 13 and the county superintendent of highways on September 18, As the result of a previous joint request for reduced speed limits, submitted dujring July, 196? an investigation of traffic conditions on the same sections of Hayts Road and DuBois Road covered by the September request had already been initiated. An investigation of traffic conditi<ms on Warren Road was also initiated as the result of a joint request for a reduced speed limit on this road sulmdtted during August, We delayed answering your letter of September 19 until the results of the above investigations were received by this office. Our letter to you of July 18 e^qilained why investigations of traffic conditions on Trumansburg Road, Route 96, and Bundy Road were not juetified. It is still our opinicn that new investigations of traffic conditions on these two highways would result in the same findings as the previous investigations. As the result of the investigations conducted on Hayts Road and DuBois Road, it has been detennined that reduced speed limits cai these highways are not warranted. The investigation of traffic conditions on Warreia Road reveals that the present 40 MPH speed Ijnrit is proper and there are no factors which would support an extension of this zone north to the northerly IthAca town, line. -2- We appreciate the fact that you, as Town Supervisor, constantly receive requests for lower speed limits from residents of the town# They want speeds reduced and are assuming that the posting of a low speed limit will result in a related reduction of the prevailing speeds^ This is a natural assumption, but as e^lained to you both by telephone and correspondence from our office, prevailing speeds are dictated by highway characteristics and road side development and are little effect ed by a posted speed limit, either high or low* Unfortunately, the matter of speed reguQation is often controversial and involves considerationsvdiich go well beyond the mere placement of speed limit signs* A speed limit involves a direct conflict of interest between residents of a highway who want speed controlled to a lew limit and the motorists using that highway who do not want to be subject to artificial or arbitrary limitations on their use of public highways. Frequently, it is the same person who, as a resident, demands a low speed lihiit past his house and vdio, as a motorists, e^q^resses resentment of that limit by ignoring it while driving past his neighbors* houses. The number of requests for reduced speed limits this office receives is very large. Were we to accede and establish a reduced speed limit in every instance our State-wide condition would be an endless mass of un related, and for the most part unrealistic speed limits, which we are sure the requester would find highly aggravating to say the least* In no case do we doubt the sincerity of the request or the belief that the speed limit desired is proper and necessary* However, we must obviously utilize some means of determining where reduced limits are appropriate and what limits are reasonable and realistic* As is the case in many of the requests we received for speed limits on highways, your main concem is the safety of children who play close to the highway or use the highway as a means of going to or IVcoi school* Whenever a decision is made not to furnish school bus transportation, this in essence determines that the public highways shall be used as a sidewalk. Hence we have the local conclusion that a regulation should be imposed on traffic in the fozm of a Iw speed limit* We would be deluding ourselves if any appreciable reliance weee to be placed on a low speed limit to overcome a situation for which the real basic solution is the removal of the need for pedestrians to walk along the public highways. Once we mix vehicles and pedestrians en a highway, >diich was caistructed for vehicular traffic and not as a sidewalk, a potential hazard is ever present which artificial restraints on vehicles will not in any significant degree remove. • -fik- \ -3- In the area of Warren Road, your town has certainly taken the proper acticai to insure the safety of school children by constructing sidewalks and providing adult school crossing guards. The recent investigation of traffic conditions in this area reveals that the signing in this area has been improved and the crossing guards are performing their duties properly. We agree there are times on Warren Road, and other roads in yoiu? town, when the presence of children going to school mandate a reduced speed lower than the legal speed limit. However, a general speed limit which is in effect all day, every day, must be realistic in tenns of the normal conditions which prevail most of the time through the zone involved. Obviously the exLstense of a school, and the pedestrian and vehicular traffic associated with it, are important factors to be considered in any speed zone study. However, we are sure you can appreciate that scam recognition must be given to t he fact that school traffic problems exist only at certain locations during relatively brief periods and then only on school days. The speed limit posted must reflect the proper speed limit under normal conditions. It must not take into consideration a tolerance allowed enforce ment agencies or local Justices, Motorists noimally assume a very small tolerance, if any, i(dien they are aware that a posted speed limit is being enforced, Enforcement is net a matter under our ;}uxidictioa but is something idiich the town can certainly influence, A posted limit less than the maximum, as you referred to, has but one main result - the establishment of a "speed Trap", This is easy to enforce but certainly is not enforcement on a sound basis or in the best interest of the public. If we can convince all motorists that traffic control devices are posting sound, reasonable, and proper regulations, they tend to develop a pattern of voluntary compliance to all such devices rather than a pattern of disrespect, A motorist driving at legal speeds is a safer driver because rather than being overly concerned about being apprehended by law officers, he can concentrate on safe driving practices and is in a more relased and alert state of mind. When particular conditions along any highway require a reduced speed, motorists are required to drive accordingly pursuant to Section 1180 (e) of the Vehicle and Traffic Law, This particular secticai of the Vehicle and Traffic law requires speeds consistent with Section 1180 (a) and at the same time specifies what conditions do require a reduced speed. We admit it may be harder to apprehend violaters and obtain convictions under Section 1180 (e), but this requirement is a statute and as such can be enforced. cW • -4^ As an example^ when a law enforcement officer observes a motorist proceeding along a highway without reducing his speed when such is required, the motorist is violating Section 1180 (e), A condition which could require a reduced speed would be children waiting to cross a highway or children walking iznaediately adjacent to the main traveled roadway* An enforcement officer could use the rate of speed of other motorists who reduce their speeds uider the same conditions, or a speed which he feel in his opinion woiild be the proper speed, to determine when a motorist is in violation of Section 1180 (e)« As is the case when enforcement of a posted speed limit is carried out, only the real violators would be apprehended on a practical basis* jSnforcesnent in this matter, given proper support by the local Justices, respect for police officers, and publicity in local newspapers should certsdnly result in improved traffic conditions on highways within the town. One of the main benefits obtained is that it would encourage moto rists to adjust their speeds according to conditions that exist on or along the highway. The average motorist is offended when his Judgement of what is the proper speed limit on a highway is questioned by the posting and enforcement of arbitrary speed limits. Part of our State-wide speed evaluation program incudes the recording of prevailing speeds by radar as a means of determining what is a realistic speed limit for a highway. It must be assiunsd that the majority of the motorists on our highways have a reasonable idea of what a proper speed for a given length of highway is, especially when they are resi dents of the same area. It is never our Intent to increase the prevailing speeds on any of our highways or permit speeds to continue vrtiich \*9 feel are too fast based upon our procedure for determining realistic and reasonable speed limits. Please accept our assurance that we are very concerned over safety on our highways and bear with you a mutual concern over the unnecessary loss of life and property. We realize it may be difficult to understand our policies and accept our recOTimendations conceming speed limits. We sincerely hope this letter explains seme of the reasoning and engineering practices behind our speed evaluation program. It is a widely accepted principal that the randan establishment of low speed limits is not the best solution for making our highways safer, either for motorists, or pedestrians, and especially our children. Very truly yours. CHARLES E. BESANCSJJET, Direct^ Traffic Ehgineering and Safe AWR/ls cc: Tompkins Go. Superintendent of Hwys. District - 3 Supt. State Police