I am delighted by the appointments of Joseph Bartenfelder and Keiffer Mitchell as affirmations of Gov.-elect Larry Hogan's bipartisan approach to governing ("Hogan names Democrat Keiffer Mitchell as special adviser," Jan. 13).
However, I am absolutely dismayed by the appointment of Pete Rahn, whom Mr. Hogan called "the best highway builder in America," as transportation secretary.
Maryland, and especially Baltimore, do not need more highways. Repairing existing roads should be the priority.
What we do need is better public transportation. The greatness of a city is determined by how easily one can get from point A to point B, and in that sense our city and state fail miserably.
I live in the city with a bus stop in front of my building. But if I want to get anywhere in a timely manner the only way to get there is by car.
Cars require parking, however, which is costly, and they emit pollution. And while gas is uncharacteristically cheap now, it won't be forever.
We need fewer cars on the road and more public transportation. Maryland and Baltimore will be much more attractive to potential residents if they can demonstrate to young people, families and low-income workers that they don't need to have a car to get to work, attend school and enjoy public attractions.
Carole Simon, Baltimore