I realize construction on campus is a necessary evil, and realize the summer incurs the least amount of traffic and, therefore, is the best time to revamp the area. I also understand I must leave my house much earlier than usual to make it to my classes. This is not a problem for me.

Recently, however, I was on my detour to class, when I noticed a man who was visually impaired struggling to find his way out of the wonderful maze of chain-link fencing we have been provided with. After it seemed he was unable to make it through without injury, I asked him if he would like to walk to class with me.

I am fully aware individuals with disabilities are completely capable of navigating campus as well as I am, they just use other means - but this man was accepting of my assistance, and he and I couldn't help getting a bit angry because there were no clear alternate routes for him to take.

I have looked at the campus construction Web site and read about the many projects taking place over the summer. While this is a useful tool for locating construction areas, it obviously does not provide sufficient detours.

I am urging those in charge of campus construction to provide safer and clearer alternatives for students, professors, employees and community members with disabilities, and those without, to make it to their jobs, classes and leisure activities without injury and without needing the help of other people.

Jenna Parker
English senior