TRANSIT: Calling for compromise

Regarding the new transit center — my memory may be a little hazy but it seems to me that the plans for the center as published did not include an enclosed area for the public or bathroom facilities for them. It was to be offices for Citylink employees.

I was never against this center being built, but I did think it strange that it left the ridership out in the cold so to speak. It was like a gift to the community with a lot of strings attached.

I drove by the transit center Saturday to check it out. There was a very nice parking lot. From what is being said, there are not enough spaces. Who parks there other than a few employees and the bus riders? I was surprised it was so full.

There is a vacant lot on the other side of the building. I wonder if that could be paved eventually. There was a large overhang at the entrance to the offices that had a roof but was open to the elements. Could that eventually be glassed in?

I saw a few attractive metal benches around the building. Would they be permanently outside during the winter? I remember the argument that having a “bus station” would attract crime and that is probably the reason the facility was built in the way it was to deter that from happening. Is there a good compromise out there? Any ideas?

CONNIE ANDERSON

Coeur d’Alene