I was grateful for Dow Constantine's explanation of why night, midday and weekend runs on Alki Avenue were eliminated. I was also interested to learn of his successes. Good job - he cares.

Understandable the big funding is being spent on the water taxi, the Vashon ferry, ramps, overpasses and the (light rail) corridor. I envy these passengers who are being services. They can drive themselves or take a bus or ride the water taxi. Commuters have a choice. Those on the Alki run may not be to drive, have no direct bus and find it hazardous to balance on a slippery water-tossed pier. Seniors have no choice.

All we are asking for is maybe midday round trip, an evening bus home and an a.m. and p.m. weekend trip. I believe it could be managed very simply. Extend Route 56 runs a couple of miles, a couple of times a day to include Harbor Avenue, Beach Drive and Alki. Non-driving seniors would appreciate these few extra trips and recapture some of the freedom we lost in 2000.

I believe Route 56 could spare an extra side trip. I bet Metro could afford a couple extra runs on the weekend.

If Dow Constantine would champion this challenge and make this dream come true, I'd again say, "good job, he cares."

Mary Ellen Kanyer

Alki