Letter: Disturbing concepts in Richland consultant’s waterfront plan

While reading the March 25 article concerning the proposed waterfront development in Richland, I found several of consultant Roger Brooks’ ideas to be disturbing, such as turning the area into a destination for wealthy, young professionals. Let’s take away one of the few remaining free, public access areas to the Columbia River.

Next, removing the left turn lane from George Washington Way and packing the area with commercial ventures will make the already congested street even more congested and dangerous. If the Tri-Cities wanted traffic like Puget Sound and California, we would all move there.

Third, and perhaps the most pompous statement: “The thing about Eastern Washington that bugs all of us from Western Washington — the lack of trees.” Well Mr. Brooks, the thing that bothers all of us about some people from Western Washington is the fact that they try to force Eastern Washington into becoming like the west side.

Mr. Brooks, respectfully, if you are so bugged by Eastern Washington, please feel free to take I-82 west.

This story was originally published March 29, 2016 at 7:28 PM with the headline "Letter: Disturbing concepts in Richland consultant’s waterfront plan."