Another resolution of support, this time from WCU’s outgoing president, Dr. Madeleine Wing Adler:

On behalf of West Chester University of Pennsylvania, I am submitting this letter in support of extending SEPTA’s R3 train link to West Chester.

At present, West Chester University is served by SEPTA Bus #104 from the 69th Street terminal. However, the addition of passenger rail service would be a significant enhancement to public transportation in the region. The train connection from Philadelphia to West Chester via Media would provide a faster and more reliable link, and also would connect West Chester with Media and points in between, where many faculty, staff and students reside.

Rail transportation has significant advantages over commuting by automobile. Sky-rocketing gas prices, the cost of parking and its limited availability, insurance expenses, and traffic congestion are all good reasons to choose rail service over the automobile. In addition, passengers are able to study and/or prepare for classes while commuting. Just as important, however, the restoration fo rail service to West Chester would provide valuable long-term benefits for the environment.

West Chester University is committed to assessing the impact of the University on the environment, and is working to lighten that impact wherever possible. To that end, we are monitoring the commuter population at the University, and are implementing various practices meant to reduce the amount of traffic to and from West Chester and to raise the environmental consciousness of our students, faculty and staff. The University’s committment to work towards a more environmentally-sustainable future compels us to pursue even the most long-term goals in the hopes that our community will be enhanced by our efforts.

On behalf of West Chester University, we are willing to join with county officials and neighbors in support of SEPTA R3 service returning to our area. Please let me know how we can assist in bringing this issue to public consciousness and reality.

Sincerely,

Madeleine Wing Adler

President

Dr. Adler will resign from her post as President effective June 30, 2008. Please make sure to thank her and the university for their support.