Business, commuters and now The Post seem to be speaking with one voice to "Reopen Pennsylvania Avenue" [editorial, May 22]. But Pennsylvania Avenue is as open as ever: Just ask the residents and tourists who enjoy it every day by foot, bicycle, rollerblade, skateboard and wheelchair. Only motor vehicles are excluded—a measure used in central cities all over the world—true, for general quality-of-life reasons and not for a president's safety—with positive results for everyone.

Pennsylvania Avenue ceased being a thoroughfare when the Treasury Department building was built right in the middle of it a long time ago. People adjust, even those—and they are not everyone—who haven't yet.

PATRICK WHELAN

Washington

In many of the largest cities of Europe, blocks of streets are closed to car traffic, but life and commerce go on. The closing of a section of Pennsylvania Avenue was not done "in a frenzy of fear" but as a considered decision by the proper authorities that it was necessary for the protection of the president, his family and the White House staff. Alternatives were made available to ease the inconvenience.

Washington is always ready to investigate tragedies. In this case it is far better to prevent a tragedy.

GRACE E. MARCUSE
Arlington