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 I don't agree with County Executive Isiah Leggett on many issues, but the one in which we are in total agreement is making our roads safer for pedestrians.

He wants to remove trees between the sidewalks and roads and the Park and Planning Department wants to keep them. I agree with Mr. Leggett. Yes, the trees are beautiful and provide needed shade; but, they also block the view of both pedestrians and drivers.

I cross Calverton Boulevard using the crosswalk at either Sandy Point Drive or Gracefield Road several times a day. Because the county planted trees in the narrow strip of grass between the sidewalk and the road along Calverton several years ago, I must step into the road before I can see if any vehicles are coming. The same is true for drivers pulling out of either of those streets. I have almost been hit several times while attempting to cross Calverton.

It's difficult enough getting drivers to stop for pedestrians when they can see them; it's impossible when they can't see them because of a row of trees next to the road. There must be clear sight lines for both pedestrians and drivers and if that means trees must be removed, then the Park and Planning Department needs to understand that.

Larry L. Reynolds, Silver Spring