For the time being -- the next year or so -- the question of consolidation of Three Rivers Community College is moot. In the meantime, those who favor or oppose consolidation there might be wise to build consensus on an alternative.

The Legislature's Finance, Revenue and Bonding Commission voted not to fund the $34 million recommended by Gov. John G. Rowland. That came as a surprise.

That decision kept the issue from reaching the state bonding commission which the governor chairs.

The decision probably serves well all those concerned.

Three Rivers' faculty and staff have been waiting years for ground to be broken on a consolidated campus.

Opponents of the plan to consolidate the college at its Mahan Drive campus are fervent in that opposition because it is heartfelt -- but also because the objections have merit.

Neighbors of the campus worry over increased traffic which, in turn, would mean more light and noise pollution.

Folks living down Harland Road worry the road might be widened.

Those on lower Harland Road, Washington Street and roads off Washington Street near Backus Hospital are concerned that construction at Mahan Drive will cause further drainage problems.

Those neighbors worry, too, that increased traffic at the intersection of Harland Road and Washington Street will be troublesome if not dangerous.

Finally, more than a few townspeople are concerned for the likely change in character of Mahan Drive, which is also the home to Kelly Middle School and the Rose City Senior Center.

The goal now should be to move from worry to the optimum alternative.

The community has a big stake in Three Rivers Community College. Long may it flourish.

Now is the time to come together behind an option that will do the most good for the college and the community.

Last fall, Gov. Rowland said he would be swayed by community consensus. Let's build the consensus and move forward.