Paving Streets of Pacoima

Re “The Worst Streets in the Valley Slated to Be Reconstructed During 1999-2000,” Nov. 15.

We who live and work in Pacoima read the list with great interest. We do not want to take away from any other community. However, we feel that only a half-mile stretch being designated for street reconstruction in Pacoima is unconscionable.

Over the past two years or so, Pacoima Beautiful volunteers have submitted lists to the city of streets that need repaving or repairs. To allocate funds for only one is like the proverbial drop in the bucket.

What city officials do not seem to understand is the hardship that results from the lack of paved streets in Pacoima. Children at local elementary schools cannot get to school when it rains because the mud results in impassable streets. At the intersection of Dronfield Avenue and Terra Bella Street, illegal dumping occurs every weekend because the street is unpaved and is so inviting to dumpers. Unfortunately, Pacoima has many streets worse than the one selected. Our question is, why was only one chosen?

LISETH ROMERO-MARTINEZ

Assistant director,

Pacoima Beautiful