Some increase in the bonding power of the city is, however, essential to the effective accomplishment of certain park and street improvements which the city itself should immediately undertake. The two great connecting links—that between the North and South Divisions at Michigan Avenue, and that between the West and South Divisions by means of Twelfth Street—might well proceed immediately; and yet to raise the entire cost of these improvements by special assessment, spread over a wide area, would be to arouse vigorous opposition both in and out of the courts. This contest should, if possible, be confined to the adjustment of damages and benefits to the property directly affected and which abuts on or is in the immediate vicinity of the improvements. Property which is clearly benefited in a special and peculiar manner should be assessed its fair share—and only its fair share—of the cost of these improvements, and the remaining cost should be borne by the city at large as a public benefit. The present machinery of the special assessment law is adequate for all these purposes. What is needed is sufficient bonding power to enable the city to issue bonds for the portion of the cost assessed as “public benefits.” The power to condemn or otherwise acquire easements, and to acquire and thereafter sell the fee simple title to property in the immediate vicinity of public parks and boulevards, subject to such easements as may enhance and protect the public use, would be of great advantage in the practical accomplishment of many improvements, and might aid in overcoming serious financial obstacles. The available space will, however, not permit the discussion of the particular instances to which this suggestion especially applies.