Dear Editor:

I would like to express my condolences to the family of Henry Grossbard, the gentleman who was senselessly struck by a car and killed at the intersection of Third Street and Sinatra Drive. Hoboken is a City with a big heart and I am sure everyone in our community shares my expression of grief.

This tragic loss unfortunately points to the necessity of Mayor David Roberts' initiative to make our City more pedestrian friendly. Hoboken is an urban center and is challenged with numerous quality of life issues. Most residents navigate through our town on foot and it is especially important to emphasize and proactively initiate safety programs and policy.

Since day one, Mayor Roberts has outlined a comprehensive policy to assist citizens in their ability to travel safely through our city. Virtually every corner is guarded with a "Yield to Pedestrian" sign, while an ongoing effort is made to paint curbs and crosswalks. It instills confidence to see that speed bumps are constantly being placed in every neighborhood and that curbside enforcement is now the standard. Most important, the City has implemented "Safe Paths to School" to ensure that our children are protected on a daily basis. I know the tragic loss of Mr. Grossbard will not go unnoticed and underscores the fact that we need to continue our vigilance. Comments made by Jim Vance in a recent letter to the editor are not constructive nor do they serve to offer any solutions.

Sincerely,

Bill Campbell
Hoboken Public Information Officer