Commuter rail would be great for the city

In reading "Can Transit Grow Neighborhoods?" (Jan. 12), I realized a great number of things. Public transportation provides opportunities for citizens to explore new neighborhoods, to get to work or participate in a community event. It also helps to attract people to visit neighborhoods that are not their home turf.

Public transportation can assist in increasing the value of housing and improves neighborhoods by attracting families to a community. Drivers and nondrivers alike can benefit from a good public transportation system. Many studies have been done regarding public transportation and a city's population.

The proposal for a train from Lawrenceville to Oakland is a good one ("All Aboard the East End Express?" Dec. 29). A train would bring customers to Oakland businesses, ease congestion in a city neighborhood that is always crowded, reduce pollution and cut travel time for many people.

I applaud city Councilman Bill Peduto's efforts to make train travel from Lawrenceville to Oakland a reality. I hope that this possibility becomes a reality soon. I know I would use the train.

MARY E. MOSES
Lawrenceville