In response to “Despite ‘Bikelash,’ Mayor Stands Behind Bike Lane Vision” (March 5), I want to make sure that my views on this issue are clear.

I am not an opponent of bike lanes. As stated in the article, I think better communication from the Peduto administration was necessary, and this was evidenced by Councilwoman Theresa Kail-Smith’s call for an advisory committee. But I also believe the administration’s approach should have been shared within a broader context of affordability so that the constituency in need of affordable housing isn’t being pitted against that wanting affordable and alternative modes of transportation.

It is obvious cycling is increasing in urban centers across the country and, yes, a 21st-century city understands car ownership is not needed, not wanted or inaccessible. Although political consultant Don Friedman remarked “a good mayor understands the long-term implications,” Pittsburgh residents are not supposed to read the mayor’s mind, and the needs of tech companies should not pre-empt the needs of plumbers, carpenters, janitors or hospital and hotel workers.

REV. JOHN C. WELCH
East Hills

The writer is a candidate in the Democratic primary for mayor.

First Published: March 7, 2017, 5:00 a.m.