Readers write

See success on the Summit

In response to the article “Develop or Die” (Jan. 9 <i>Sierra Sun</i>), I am a Royal Gorge skier and would like to see it successful, but at what cost to the community? The developers, Foster and Syme, bought the Royal Gorge property knowing it was losing money, to develop the property, not to save the cross-country ski resort. That is why their plan shows the vast majority of the new development built around “Ski Camp,” a new downhiil resort connecting to Sugar Bowl. The Foster-Syme plan is, however, different than most other ski resort developments.

Their plan is to surround a residential community with four “camps,” not just keeping high-density condos in a parking lot, forever changing Serene Lakes and Donner Summit. It is true that some people moved here to ski at Royal Gorge. But the vast majority of residents and homeowners did not. It would be sad to lose Royal Gorge, but it is possible to someday have a public ski trail system. That would really be a benefit to the community.

There is so much more to Donner Summit than just Royal Gorge that is worth saving. Please don't let Foster-Syme-Livak get away with their spin, that they are just developing to save a ski resort. It's about making millions for themselves.

<b>Nancy Latimer

Soda Springs</b>

Making it safe

I realize that the Town of Truckee and several members of our town have been attempting to address pedestrian issues for quite sometime. However, a very large problem still exists. With Truckee attempting to become a “Green Town,” it should be a top priority to provide safe pedestrian and bicycle traffic.

In the winter the issue does not go away, but in fact becomes a much bigger problem. People will continue to walk between the historic district, and areas such as Safeway and Tahoe Yoga & Wellness. Even in front of the high school there is no safe sidewalk access. Haven't we all seen the poor person, on foot, attempting to navigate the snow banks and traffic at the Central Truckee on-off ramp?

And, have we taken a look at the crosswalks lately? Probably not because they are extremely hard to see. Maybe it is time for some better signage/new paint.

In addition to the safety issues, the issue of commerce needs to be addressed, as well. The lack of safe pedestrian access is having a negative effect for the businesses at the west end of historic downtown during the winter months. Who wants to get sprayed with muddy slush and negotiate the narrow, icy road just to see a few stores?

With the Sierra College Campus going in, do we want more people on the road, vying for limited parking? Or do we want to offer folks an alternative to getting in their cars? I would love to walk more, but I also do not want to get run over doing it. How badly does Truckee want to become “green?” I certainly hope that the Town of Truckee, and those who reside in Truckee, continue to push for safe pedestrian access in this groovy town of ours.

Thanks for letting me add my two-cents.

<b>Steph Spencer

Truckee</b>