The Mayor and Village Council of Pinehurst, by Resolution #06-16, have formally requested the Department of Transportation (DOT) to construct an unnecessary roundabout at the intersection of N.C. 2 and Carolina Vista, the scenic roadway connecting the venerable Carolina Hotel with the Member's Club.

They have acted without input from the affected members of the Pinehurst Country Club or citizens of the community. It can only harm an environmentally sensitive and aesthetic area, which is included within the National Historic Landmark area of Pinehurst and deserves to be treated with respect for Pinehurst's historic traditions.

The roundabout will not speed traffic one iota but could prove a danger to pedestrians. There has been no concern shown for the kind of bright night lighting such traffic designs require to guarantee pedestrian and biker safety.

It might be helpful if the recently appointed Pinehurst Historic Commission were to be heard on this issue. State historic preservation officials are already advising DOT on the implications such a construction project could have on Pinehurst's treasured landmark status. Like the NewCore plan of the governing body, this ill-considered idea should go back to the drawing board.

Paul R. Dunn