Living a short distance from Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., I observe almost daily the arrival and departure of cruise ships and thousands of passengers, and the autos needed to accommodate them.

The complicated and demanding logistics associated with cruise ship operations impact heavily on the local terminal and facilities in contiguous areas.

The scene is chaotic when a behemoth (a cruise ship with as many as 4,000 and 5,000 passengers and ship staff members) docks to load or unload.

Having served as the Charleston County administrator for over a decade (1968-1979), I have a special love and respect for Charleston — its history, tradition, culture and exclusiveness.

Accordingly, as I understand the proposed cruise terminal and its anticipated impact on the Charleston historical district, I would recommend denial and suggest that some other non-intrusive venue be explored. Charleston deserves every favorable consideration in this most important matter.

RICHARD L. BLACK
North Ocean Drive
Lauderdale by the Sea, FL

(Also published in P&C.)