Proposed route is simply unacceptable

I recently attended a meeting in the city of Sandpoint regarding the proposed highway in Sand Creek. I was unaware of the facts surrounding the highway before participating in this event.

Although I had previously received rather colorful brochures from the bypass organization, depicting the potential bypass, the brochures failed to alert or acknowledge issues such as the impact it would have on our city, the environmental compromises and alternatives for a better solution.

Therefore, I am writing this to serve as a notice that I am completely against the proposed highway through Sand Creek for the following reasons:

? The waterfront is the town's most valuable asset. Why would anyone consider destroying this?

? Studying the proposed bypass, it does not solve the traffic issues in question. So it makes no sense to spend millions to destroy this exceptionally beautiful area for nothing but ugliness and loss in return.

? There needs to be planning for transportation needs, not just wasteful spending to solve one problem out of 10.

? Construction would intensify traffic drastically for several years. Not solving the original problem, but creating a worse one. Ironic, wouldn't you say? We live here, you don't.

? Small businesses would be put at risk or even fail. What we have now, works. What the ITD proposes is loss on many levels at a great expense.

? Our waterfront needs to be developed for economic potential, not destroyed.

? I have seen alternative plans for traffic solutions and they are superior to this proposed bypass.

? It would be logical, practical and cost-effective to keep what is working at present then to construct a monstrosity that ITD proposes. The traffic is just not that bad to risk the lake.

? Construction would destroy the eagle nesting areas in these areas. Need you be reminded the eagle is the representative of our nation and no more needs to be said.

VICKEY BABAYCO

Sandpoint

Most people support Sand Creek route

Recently a letter from Paul Rechnitzer was published concerning the proposed Sandpoint bypass.

As a longtime friend of Mr. Rechnitzer, I found its contents to be somewhat of a surprise — shocking would be a more appropriate term.

Little was I aware that Paul seemingly enjoys the fragrant, exotic aroma of urine-soaked Canadian cattle and pig trucks that waft throughout downtown during the spring, summer and fall months.

And, that sweet bouquet of diesel-powered rigs and their to-be-pitied drivers who have to fight the summer traffic mess.

Ah, and wonder of wonders — the old boy in his poodle-laden industrial-sized motor home. Some find him exciting to watch. This, as the giant, rolling domicile with roof-top boat, golf cart and motorcycle, barrels full bore down First Avenue, sending gentle townsfolk fleeing in all directions.

Is Paul amongst those who need a compass and extended survival gear setups to get back downtown? This is after driving somewhat of a distance to find a parking spot.

With all due respect to my pal, Paul, here is the real world.

As a county commissioner, I held a number of meetings throughout the area. This was to find out how most people really feel about the bypass or scenic byway as it is now known.

During these get togethers, an opportunity was provided for all to present their point of view.

These well-attended gatherings included a packed Community Hall, not a few schools and most Grange halls. It was learned at every one of them that more than 90 percent feel as expressed by hand, word and written vote to be strongly in favor of the bypass.

Of course, I am not overly delighted with the looks of some of this proposed project. But, we have had 55 years of wishy washying about it.

There are drawbacks, to be certain. But please, imagine a downtown without the intrusions and danger mentioned in the first part of my comments. It would be safer for pedestrians and sounder for business people.

GENE BROWN

Sandpoin