Letter to the Editor, Ann Arbor News,
dated 3/26/2003, by Clare Riesterer

Consider Child's Point of View on Development

I am a 10-year-old resident of the neighborhood bounded by Maple and Scio Church Roads which is currently under consideration for building townhouses in the woods by my school, Dicken Elementary. I am sure you know that the plan does not suit the adults' needs, but have you seen a child's view?

I am against this proposition because our school is small and full; also it is loud. I will be going to sixth-grade next year and I already know that the middle school is full. The high school is also full. More students would create more chaos. We have enough as it is.

Also, this is a peaceful, quiet neighborhood, with only a little noise. I live by the highway, and at night, it makes lots of noise. I don't want noise and bright lights keeping me awake when I have a big test the next day. I am sure that if Crosswinds would consider a toned-down plan, the neighborhood might consider it.

Please consider a child's point of view when making your decision. I know I like to walk in the woods. Maybe we could make it into a park. People need to be aware of this issue.