Editor:

     I would like to add my “experience and hope” to the dialog regarding the “proposed pathway” along the southern section of Shore Road to Route 77. For those who may not use it – there is already a pathway (or some would call this a sidewalk) on the northern portion of Shore Road, from Cottage Road to Fort Williams Park. As a regular runner and a serious one I thought – though not in the opinion of Laurel Milos [Sentry, Nov. 28] and walker of my dog Edie. My family uses this “pathway” daily from our neighborhood in Loveitts Field to the amazing and beautiful community resource of Fort Williams Park. I see many of our neighbors (adults, youth, children and dogs) on this safe “pathway” and have a chance to “connect” with them in the form of a hello, smile, nod or just a thumbs up if the temp is below freezing. I also run from the park along the southern part of Shore Road to Route 77 – and knowingly get a guaranteed adrenaline rush – as the majority of vehicles speed well above the designated limit 9the “tourists” are always able to be distinguished from the locals – as they drive below the speed limit to enjoy the incredible beauty of the area). 

    My hope is that some sort of “pathway” can be supported by my neighbors, on this southern section of Shore Road, and  that it can provide a similar – safe, enjoyable and neighborhood-enhancing experience that many of us have on the northern portion of Shore Road. To do my part – I will gladly give up my adrenaline rush!

John Levesque

South Portland