For decades, traffic officers were stationed at each intersection on Greenwich Ave. Not only did this lend a particular charm to the character of our main shopping district but it kept things orderly. Local pedestrians knew to wait for the officer's approval before stepping into the crosswalk and out-of-towners quickly learned the rules. Additionally, having a visible police presence served as a deterrent for potential crime. Since the removal of officers from this post, Greenwich Avenue resembles the wild west. Pedestrians often don't even glance toward traffic before stepping into the cross walk, leaving motorists puzzled of how to proceed. It's a miracle that nobody has been seriously injured.

The proposed modifications at the Havemeyer intersection only further impact the ambiance of Greenwich, which is quickly disappearing. We need to reinstate the officers on Greenwich Avenue for safety, foremost but to, also, preserve what is left of the charm that once drew so many to Greenwich.