I-70 corridor
The Owens administration’s selection of a highway-widening-only option ignored the overwhelming call of Colorado citizens for a balanced approach for transportation in the mountain corridor that includes transit. A widening-only approach was a 20th century solution to our 21st century problems, would devastate the livelihood and environment of our mountain communities, would increase the consumption of ever-more expensive and scarce gasoline and the production of dangerous greenhouse gases, and after 15 years of construction-induced gridlock would reach capacity 5 years after completion. What kind of a solution is that?
Taking a step back in the process, as Mr. George has called for, will allow us to develop a 50-year, not a 5-year, solution. Efficient, environmentally-friendly transit would offer Coloradans and visitors to our beautiful state an option other than endless miles of brake lights, choking exhaust fumes, and highway shutdowns due to accidents or bad weather. Imagine instead a fast, quiet train ride after a weekend of skiing or camping while sipping a hot cup of coffee, reading a book, and zipping past highway traffic.
Because of Mr. George’s sensible decision, developing an economically and environmentally sustainable solution to our mountain corridor transportation problem is once again within our grasp. It is vital that we take advantage of this opportunity and make our voices heard.
This letter has not been edited.
Now if we can just get past anti tax man Bruce and his republican, NOT MY TAX DOLLARS!, allies, maybe, just maybe, we can get a viable solution accomplished. I for one would like my kids to have the benefit of a real world, long term solution, for a change.
Posted by Western Slope on May 31, 2007 01:31 PM