Coral Gables resident questions city’s ‘progress’

In the March 15 letter “Gables’ growth,” the writer advises Coral Gables residents who are not pleased with the city’s growth and progress to move out. Clearly, this self-proclaimed life-long resident has a different view of what progress means and perhaps has some ulterior motives behind the bravado. He also affirms that past and present city governments have done an excellent job balancing moneymakers’ interests and residents’ desires for status quo. Financial growth for a few investors, Realtors, and politicians is not the same as progress for residents.

I have not met one person who moves into any neighborhood and wants more people, traffic, crime, noise and other disruptions around their homes. Progress does not mean that an entire city must suffer the evils associated with over-development to benefit a few profiteers. Our city’s infrastructure was not envisioned by a brilliant man, 100 years ago, to withstand the detrimental effects of over-development.

Our neighborhoods have become escape routes for frustrated drivers caught in traffic jams throughout the day. Speeding, multiple accidents and incessant police and emergency vehicle sirens are proof of such experiences. Meaningful public transportation is non-existent. Parking lots are transformed into high-rise buildings. No amount of traffic control devices can make a single car disappear.

Our city’s attractiveness has been exploited by a group that continues to enrich themselves while showing total disregard for the future and the welfare of residents. There is no balancing between the millions spent in political campaigns and residents’ desires. No surprise this bunch wants us to move out. We still have our votes, though.

– Manuel Feijoo Fernandez-Jacobs,

Coral Gables