I would like to rise to the defense of our city’s installation of pedestrian crossings.

Those that I have observed seem justifiable. While I seldom use them as a pedestrian, as a motorist I appreciate the visual warnings — especially the pedestrian activated flashing lights that, along with the rush hour glare from the setting sun, are sometimes the only visual clue a shadowed pedestrian is attempting to access the crossing.

I would also like to give a shout out for the 320th Street crossing in front of the library. Installation of the islands was greatly appreciated. It seemed like for every other use (of the library), I was frustrated and behind a “fellow” motorist attempting to turn illegally left (east) onto 320th Street, holding up those attempting to turn legally right (west). I sincerely hope the city rebuilds the center lane light and places decent barriers to protect the light and to prevent “island hopping.”

Geoffrey C. Kelly, Federal Way