Charity Begins

The University's pleasantly vague overture to the City in the matter of building a public parking facility is a commendable and neighborly action. Obviously, the Square is crowded, and Harvard's apparent altruism could go far toward relieving the situation.

Surely, however, there is more than altruism involved. Officers of the University have, no doubt, been delayed by traffic and some of them may even have developed mild symptoms of nervous frustration waiting to cross Massachusetts Avenue. But the crush of automobiles around the Yard cannot be the only reason for such a potentially expensive program.

In suggesting that it might help finance the garage, or lot, by agreeing to rent a specified number of the newly acquired spaces, Harvard is on the track of practicality. By charging students for these spaces, it can recoup whatever outlay it might make to the City. But a proposal providing capital for the actual building of the facility without assuring the University's rights would be a pointless exercise in charity. If University Hall is putting up half the loot, it ought to get its money's worth in material terms as well as good will.

One of the best and least expensive ways of pushing Cambridge towards a parking facility would be the offer, already vaguely made, of helping with the administrative, legal, and public relations burdens of the project. But if Harvard wants to aid materially, it should make sure that its own interests are prominently considered.