Question: Why does the author include the phrase "some may fear that a half marathon would be an inconvenience because of traffic" in the editorial? 1. to anticipate and resolve a potential problem caused by the half marathon
2. to discredit the argument by showing it as an unlikely and unimportant concern
3. to emphasize and clarify the author's position in reference to the half marathon
4. to appeal to the emotions of readers by focusing on the health benefits of running

[passage]
Although most residents agree that running events continue to be popular and would be an enjoyable addition to our spring calendar, ,begin underline, some may fear that a half marathon would be an inconvenience because of traffic, end underline,. However, a careful mapping of the 13.1-mile course would avoid problems. The proposed route could be posted on the town's website well ahead of time, and residents would have a week or two to note any difficulties they see. Such feedback would allow a committee adequate time to reroute the race if necessary. The result? Everyone—runners, residents, and drivers—will be satisfied. Most importantly, by working together to become the most runner-friendly city in our region, we better exemplify our town's motto: "A happy, healthy place to live."