To the Editor:
A major investment in high-speed rail in New York would most likely focus first on the Hudson River shore from Manhattan to Albany. This would ruin the lovely Hudson River Valley, in terms of lifestyle and environment.
A modern high-speed rail line would allow a commute from mid-Hudson towns like Poughkeepsie to Midtown Manhattan in less time than it takes by subway from the Bronx, perhaps under a half hour.
The curse of urban sprawl would spread all the way to Saratoga. Say goodbye to lovely landscapes and nice communities. Say hello to the next Nassau County, Queens or Yonkers. I say, not so fast.
Josh Koenig
Cropseyville, N.Y., Aug. 1, 2009
Keith Burgess-Jackson, J.D., Ph.D. 