To the person(s) who think(s) that driving on Alki/Harbor Ave is the same as driving on Interstate 5, may I have your attention for a few minutes? I Iive on Harbor Avenue. Leaving our condo and entering into the main flow of traffic usually presents some challenges so, one must exercise much caution when doing so.

In the morning when I am leaving our condo property, I look both ways on Harbor Avenue watching for an opportunity to safely enter the flow of traffic. If I see you in a vehicle that is 4 or 5 blocks away from me, I should be able to assume that you are traveling at the legal rate of speed (35 mph), permitting me to enter the road and then accelerate to the legal speed limit without impeding your rate of speed. I’ll even give you an extra 5 mph, just to be safe.

After I am onto Harbor Avenue and safely (so I believe) traveling at the legal limit, you speed up to me as I observe you in my mirrors as you decide to “tailgate” me for a while. I think you’re trying to get my attention.
Believe me. I understand what you want me to know and I’m really not impressed and I doubt if the bikers, walkers, and dog walkers are much impressed either.

A few minutes later after I stop at the next traffic light, should you be surprised that (at best) you are only one car length ahead of me or we just might be next to each other in different lanes of traffic. My question for you: What has your excessively fast and impatient driving proved, aside from endangering others including yourself.

Assuming that you are possibly late for your job or some other appointment, may I offer this suggestion? Set your alarm to wake up earlier or just plan to leave earlier. The would make me and many of my neighbors feeling much safer and happier. I hope it would do the same for you.

Dave Gehring
Harbor Ave.
Seattle