Editor,
I read the March 7 top story “Sweeping questions for San Bruno” and realize there is no easy solution but it did remind me of a phrase with an interesting etymological origin, ‘the wrong side of the tracks.” How did some areas become known as such? The phrase has been used across the country and often refers to those on the east side. Why? Wind and weather.
When our country was being assembled, the train was the primary workhorse for delivering people, products and raw materials. Early locomotives burned coal to generate steam power and their stacks spewed out prodigious amounts of foul particulate smoke. Prevailing weather patterns typically involve winds blowing west to east which pushed this mass over areas downwind. When you look at municipalities across the country you will often find smaller plots and denser populations on the east side of railroad lines as these areas were cut into smaller, more affordable plots for the working class that built our world. Now the trains are thankfully electrified but the density issue is permanent.
If the real issue is flood prevention, staff should develop a regular inspection program for sewer access points, clearing them as needed. This should be combined with targeted community outreach to ensure local stakeholders take ownership of their streets, drains and environment. Hopefully current leadership can resolve this sweeping issue and help the east side become the right side!
Gus Sinks
San Bruno
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