Having been involved in the process regarding the Auburn Trail extension, I am very concerned over the one-sided view portrayed in "Happy Trails to Whom?" (June 11). The article failed to mention that this existing trail is an abandoned railroad bed for which RG&E has the right of way. The Town of Victor procured the right of way to provide the possibility of a connective alternative transportation corridor for human-powered activity to a broad section of the community.

The existing raised rail bed, composed of grasses, cinders, and iron slag and paths of varying width, is indeed a beautiful and fantastic corridor through the Irondequoit Creek area between the Hamlet of Fishers and Powder Mill Park. As a proponent of inclusive recreation and fitness opportunities to people with disabling conditions - as well as friends, family, and the wider community - I believe this recreational / alternative-transportation corridor should accommodate the broadest cross section of the community. Particularly for physically and mentally challenged individuals, safe access and a successful recreational experience are essential.

Because these alternative transportation corridors use abandoned rail beds, the grades of the trails allow the least skilled and most physically challenged individuals to enjoy a challenging, outdoor recreational experience that the able bodied often taken for granted.

The proposed construction of the trail offers a compromise from the standard 10-foot width to a primarily 8-foot width. For those areas deemed environmentally sensitive, a width of 6 feet is proposed. The coalition group, however, has shown no sense of compromise. This would be a great loss for the community as a whole based on the position of a special interest group.

RICHARD E. WILLIAMS, ROCHESTER