Logan traffic rises from nuisance to election issue
By Peter J. Howe, Boston Globe, 9/22/2006
So how bad is traffic at Logan International Airport?
So bad it's even an issue in the governor's race.
When Lieutenant Governor Kerry M. Healey unveiled a list Wednesday of 50 big ideas she'd pursue as governor, there at number 44 was creating a "cellphone parking lot" at the airport. About 30 US airports have such lots, where motorists awaiting an arriving passenger can park for free, then drive to the terminal curb after their party has arrived and called them.
"Just about everyone who has headed over to Logan Airport," Healey said, "has a story about endlessly circling the terminal while waiting to pick up a passenger" whose flight or bags were delayed. That creates not only hassles but congestion and potential security risks, Healey said. (Maybe since her running mate, Reed Hillman , used to be in charge of the State Police, she left out: Motorists getting yelled at by troopers for idling.)
Logan spokeswoman Danny Levy said, "We totally love the idea. Unfortunately, we're land-constrained" and have no space. "But we'll continue to look at it," she added.
Aides to Democratic nominee Deval L. Patrick had no comment on the plan. But Nicole Nionakis, spokeswoman for independent Christy Mihos, kicked it to the curb, terming it "small-minded and trivial. There are much bigger issues of concern to voters in Massachusetts."
At least when they're not waiting for Mom's plane.