Valley changes

I am writing in response to Kyle Anne Matthews’ letter concerning the recent changes to the Valley.

As someone who has lived in this beautiful Valley my whole life, I was more than frustrated by her letter. The way I see it, she is the part of the problem. While change is hard and very rarely welcomed with open arms, it is necessary when you have a population base that is continuing to grow. To point a finger at the “fathers” of North Bend is laughable.

She talks about the raping of Mother Nature and mentions her displeasure for the roundabouts. I happen to be a fan of roundabouts. Although there is a learning curve, they are effective. Roundabouts use less energy than stoplights and help prevent excess carbon emissions from idling cars. Most people think that they are more aesthetically pleasing than stoplights hanging everywhere around town. Does anyone remember when there were no stoplights in town?

She mentions the new bridge on Mount Si Road, calling it a “Metal Monster.” I would like to know what she would suggest in its place? She also blames those same “fathers” for the “awful, disgusting” Casino. This is actually in Snoqualmie, get your facts right.

Finally, she complains about the new proposed park and ride to accommodate the commuters out here. Please explain to me how this is a bad thing? Less cars on the road, making commuting easier for the citizens of the Valley, helping to make other areas more accessible for those that can’t drive. Your right, you got me there. That is an evil, illogical plan by the leaders of the community.

Do I agree with everything that is happening out here? Absolutely not! I do think that change can be good. I am extremely frustrated and angered, though, that someone that has lived here for such a short time can hold such a strong opinion of a place, that I have watched go from a quaint town to suburbia in what seems like overnight!

Personally I think the leaders are doing the best they can with the hand they were dealt. Perhaps you should take your own advice and move away!

Liz Schomber

North Bend