To the editor:

I read with great interest the article on Bob Mikesic (J-W June 14) and the subsequent letter from Bradley Kemp on June 17. Both deal with the deplorable condition of some sidewalks in Lawrence and the hazards that they produce.

I suffer from a visual impairment, and my driving is limited. Since moving to Lawrence 13 years ago, I have walked to and from town on business and for pleasure, prior to the creation of the new bus system, and have been challenged each time by sidewalks in disrepair which are not only dangerous but are also unsightly. Last summer, I took a nasty fall on one of these sidewalks. The property owner had it repaired immediately, but this was little compensation for an injured ankle that required six months to heal.

I know that the citizens can report dangerous sidewalks to the city, but many feel uncomfortable about being in a vigilante position. The city has an ordinance that puts the responsibility of sidewalk maintenance on the property owner but obviously hasn’t the manpower to enforce the ordinance. When I had my own sidewalk replaced eight years ago, I experienced great difficulty in finding a private contractor for the job as there was more money to be made on larger projects in rapidly growing west Lawrence.

Our former place of residence, Traverse City, Mich., had sidewalks repaired by city construction crews and the property owner was assessed for these repairs. I don’t know of anyone who was thrust into poverty because of this practice. It may be the direction that Lawrence should go. There should be accommodation for pedestrians as well as vehicular traffic. Not everyone is subject to the great American love affair with the automobile.

Jack Ozegovic,

Lawrence