Dear Eleanore Turkington:
The controversy between pedestrians and cyclists along the shoreline walkway is a perfect example of our inability to solve problems with each other in a way that is beneficial to all who enjoy the path. It also demonstrates our lack of respect for the rules and each other.
The solution is quite simple. Those who walk should stay on the left and cyclists should ride on the right at a speed that is appropriate for that path. The path is not part of the Tour de France! I have ridden along the path and it is very frustrating to be on the right and not be able to navigate a safe ride. Suggesting that cyclists ride out on the boulevard is not a good idea. That road has become part of the Indy 500 and is dangerous for biking.
If pigeons had to walk on the left and eagles fly on the right the problem would not exist. So much for human ability to follow the rules these days!!!
Faithful Reader
Dear Faithful Reader:
Gripe Vine receives complaints, bike riders vs. pedestrians quite often. I am inviting my readers interested in this to write and let me know your thoughts on this issue.
Dear Eleanore Turkington:
When is the slide at the Savin Rock Trail Playground going to be repaired? It has a large slit on it and could become a dangerous situation for the children using it.
Grandma
Dear Grandma:
I asked Francis Withington the city’s complaint officer to look into your complaint. His reply, “Parks Superintendent Joe Montagna repaired it last week; it’s all set.”
Dear Eleanore Turkington:
The trash barrels in the parking lot at 2-44 Beach St. need to be updated. They should be securely placed in a central location visible with trash and recycling options. Trash containers must have secure lids so trash does not blow all over the lot and beach. It’s time to stop using the 55 gallon drums for trash bins or get them better tops and secure them!
A Resident Who Cares
Dear Eleanore Turkington:
There is a broken rail at the Savin Rock Trail. Is there a time frame on fixing this? Placing cones only shows an awareness of this problem. It’s a major hazard as it drops down six feet to the ocean.
Afraid
Dear Afraid:
The rail has been repaired.
Dear Eleanore Turkington:
There is an employee at a restaurant on Campbell Avenue who has a loud defective muffler and he is reckless. He constantly drives late at night down Leete Street, Washington Avenue and William Street and wakes up the whole neighborhood. Can this noise be stopped?
Sleepless
Dear Sleepless:
I have notified Francis Withington, complaint officer for the city of your gripe. He replied, “I will forward this information to the West Haven Police Department to investigate.”
Dear Eleanore Turkington:
There is a house on Prospect Street that appears to be abandoned. It is in need of repair or paint or demolition. Perhaps the homeless would consider this property a possibility for a temporary refuge.
Fix It Up
Dear Fix It Up:
The city has been notified of this condition. The city’s Complaint Officer, Francis Withington received this issue and has indicated that this property has to go to corporate counsel for further sanctions.
Gripe Vine Readers:
As promised, each week in Gripe Vine, I plan to discuss various aspects of riding a motorcycle in the state of Connecticut. Since many of you have complained of loud, speeding “bikes” on West Haven streets, you might find it interesting to read of the state of Connecticut requirements. Meanwhile speed limit signs from the state of Connecticut are still awaited.
Coming up….Campbell and Post Road intersection gripe…more Beach Street blight questions…lighting on Capt. Thomas Boulevard…bicycle riders hassling motorists..cancelled concert griper..Colonial Park gripe..sea shells on beach complaint…speed bumps on Beach Street..traffic light at Capt. Thomas Boulevard and Kelsey Avenue gripe..blinking traffic light at Central Avenue and Route 34 ,boat ramp inquiry, graffiti on Beach Street…repaint road lines…Campbell Avenue pot holes…recycled trash complaint.. overflowing trash..racing motorcycles on Capt. Thomas Boulevard and much more.
You can send your gripes, comments and suggestions to gripevine4wh@aol.com or write to Gripe Vine c/o West Haven Voice, 666 Savin Avenue. Please include your name, address and phone number kept in strict confidence with me. If you need additional space, use an extra piece of paper.