Let's work together for a real bypass solution

I appreciate Ms. Wadkins' humor in her letter posted on Nov. 16, regarding the much maligned byway.

However, her idea that a tunnel is not plausible is simply misinformed. The tunnel design I have seen is simple and impressive, with reasonable expansion opportunities. The bypass design I have seen is dangerous, and does not even allow for the growth we have experienced since the design was completed.

To insist the bypass is overdue and therefore not worth debating is also dangerous, as that allows an unacceptable design to be implemented.

The need for expansion of the bypass, once built, is an unstated reality; unstated because even bypass proponents don't want that reality.

Money for the choice we make does and will exist, at the state and federal level. Tunnels exist all over the world. The English Channel tunnel was built, in part, by a company from Boise.

Sandpoint is worth the time and effort and frustration now, instead of later, when we are stuck with something that won't work. I encourage all of us to work together to require an acceptable, safe and long-term solution.

MARK WATSON

Sandpoint