Walkability, driving conflict

I feel the need to write after reading the (October) letter sent to you about walkability and safety.

I agree with the letter, however, I feel we also need to look at it further.

Many times since all the changes occurred in downtown Birmingham I have experienced several dangerous instances while driving, especially in the morning.

You not only have to maneuver around the large trucks, semis, Federal Express, Amazon, Kroger, Walmart, UPS, linen delivery, produce and various delivery trucks, cement monsters, construction machines — that stop anywhere, usually in the middle of the roads, making it very difficult to see around them, but also for pedestrians, who dart out into the road between cars and trucks.

I notice most pedestrians do not cross at the crosswalk, nor do they obey the traffic lights.

The very narrow roads now make it very dangerous to drive without hitting the rear end of cars and especially large SUVs and trucks (that are) parked.

Yes, we want the city to be a walkable community, but we also have to remember we also still have to drive safely in this community and the changes have made it much more difficult and dangerous for both drivers and pedestrians.

Thank you for all the information you provide for us with your publication.

Elizabeth Clark

Birmingham