To the Editor:

Our neighborhood, Scott Lane/Bainbridge Street, has just gone through an extensive and necessary renovation, involving new sewers, new sidewalks, and new street paving. Like all renovations, it was a sometimes exasperating experience which lasted longer than expected. However, now that it’s finished, I want to express my thanks for the exemplary way in which our Borough Council members and government employees handled this difficult situation.

This renovation was not without neighborhood disagreement, and Borough Council members sat through several hearings in which different views were forcefully aired by neighborhood residents. I was very impressed by the careful way Council members listened to differing opinions, and the calm way in which they responded. I am particularly grateful to Jo Butler, Jenny Crumiller, Barbara Trelstad, and Kevin Wilkes for their insightful and sensible comments regarding the need for adequate sidewalks, and to Barbara Trelstad for her oversight of the renovation.

The engineering department should be commended for the way in which it handled the renovation. Bob Pagan, assistant borough engineer, spent innumerable hours, often on his own time, to consult with individual homeowners regarding issues such as sidewalk alignment and driveway repair. Mr. Pagan arranged for timely recycling and trash pickup so that there would be minimal inconvenience for neighborhood residents. We were very fortunate to have had the services of such a dedicated Borough employee, and I know I speak for many neighbors in thanking him for his help.

Francesca Benson

Bainbridge Street