Letters to the editor: Bad roads in Ventura; don't need Fairgrounds stadium
Roads remain in disrepair
This letter should have been written a few years ago but I thought for sure Ventura would get back on track taking care of its infrastructure, specifically our roads. No such luck.
Even before the recent rains created all those potholes, our streets were being allowed to deteriorate. It used to be an occasional thing but most any drive finds streets with cracks, loose cement and holes, none of which get better with time and use.
It wasn’t always this bad as our streets were kept in much better shape last century. The city’s income, adjusted for inflation and the number of residents, can’t be lower than 20 years ago. As they delay work, the costs to repair just get worse.
This creates damage to our cars, uncomfortable rides and, I’m afraid, more accidents down the road. You have to wonder, if the city is taking such poor care of such a visible and highly used asset, what else is not receiving proper care?
Call or email the city and let them know your feelings on our poorly maintained roads.
Pete Hockenmaier, Ventura
Stadium isn’t a ‘Field of Dreams’
Re: Arlene Martinez’s Jan. 31 guest column, “Fairgrounds stadium is off-base”:
I agree with Ms. Martinez and her views regarding a baseball stadium at the Ventura County Fairgrounds.
Over 30 years ago some local individuals thought it would be a good idea to build a stadium around the Camarillo airport. They actually had a team they thought they could entice to move here. The idea never materialized.
Ms. Martinez left out two other reasons this whole concept will not work out.
What owner is willing to move their team to Ventura? Most of these minor league teams are individually owned. And then there is the housing issue. Where are these young men going to live? Most of the players have not signed large contracts or bonuses to play baseball.
This is not the “Field of Dreams” where “If you build it, they will come.”
Jamie Harvey, Ventura
This article originally appeared on Ventura County Star: Letters: Bad roads in Ventura; don't need Fairgrounds stadium
