To the Editor:

Alexandria needs to reelect Tim Lovain as a member of the Alexandria City Council. Tim has the transportation expertise to help solve Alexandria's traffic problems. He understands that providing alternative multi-modal transportation systems using efficient, arterial routes for Alexandrians is one of the best ways to protect our neighborhoods and keepAlexandria moving. Tim's goal is to move people, not cars, around Alexandria.

Tim Lovain was a valuable supporter of the Transportation Master Plan adopted for Alexandria last year. He understands that planning in advance is the key to handling Alexandria's transportation issues and will assure that every land use decision fits into the overall transportation plan for the City.

Tim knows that we need to implement multi-modal integrated transportation systems that include trolleys, bus rapid transit, dedicated bicycle lanes, improved pedestrian walks and enhancements to existing public transportation. Tim Lovain has sponsored a public forum on street cars to educate Alexandrians about how the modern street car fits into today's transportation plans. It is definitely "not your father's car" any longer.

Improved public transportation is not just more routes and vehicles — it is using technology to alert riders to when vehicles will be arriving and where there are delays — as well as providing comfortable "Smart Shelters" in which riders can wait comfortably. Modern technology allows public transportation to be easy to use and become the first choice of people in Alexandria.

There must be reliable transportation alternatives to automobiles. Alexandria needs to implement the Master Plan which recognizes these alternatives. Tim Lovain has been in the forefront in focusing on this and we need to retain his expertise on City Council. All Alexandrians need to support Tim Lovain for City Council.

Lois Walker