To the editor:

In reference to your editorial “Lost Opportunity” (J-W, Oct. 20), I submit the following proposal.

Over the years with much talk, research and considerable dollars spent to solve this nightmare, this simple solution’s cost should not be too expensive. However, I’m sure there will be considerable crying and gnashing of teeth from the merchants on 23rd Street.

Simply put:

1. No left turns on 23rd Street from Iowa to Massachusetts except where there are stop (electric) lights and left turning lanes.

2. Use the present center turning lane to convey traffic during heavy traffic conditions as follows:

a) Install automated traffic (electric) signals as necessary to use this center lane for eastbound traffic from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and westbound traffic from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

b) At other times of the day the signal lights would show red (do not use).

c) This system could also be used to get traffic to and from KU sports events.

Other cities across our nation have used this system very effectively to solve their problems. Why can’t Lawrence?

This nightmare must be eliminated.

James A. Stokes, Jr.,

Lawrence