In a letter published on June 19, the writer advises us to “stand up to the problems downtown,” not “run away” from them, as he related a recent event when a female bank employee was assaulted in an attempted purse snatching.

The letter writer is a man, who probably wears sensible shoes. Of course, it sounds easy. What’s to be afraid of? The letter writer boldly says that we (we?) should “take back” downtown so that all the nightspots and bars and theaters can keep operating, presumably for the occasional entertainment of folks with disposable income.

The letter writer likely hasn’t experienced being a prey animal.

The only logical solution to making downtown hospitable and happening for everyone is housing. Not cops, not fences, not cameras. More people. A mix of people who live and work downtown with 24/7 activity, lots of people coming and going. The usual expensive student apartments and more hotels won’t do it.

Affordable housing is the solution – or at least the dilution – of all of Eugene’s current problems. Every one.

T.R. Kelley
Springfield