Failure to fix highways will cost all Idahoans

I would like to commend Sen. Shawn Keough for her leadership and courageous stance on outlining the need for increased transportation funding for Idaho. She is on target and absolutely correct in her assessment

Idaho's roads and bridges (like Dover) are essential for local businesses and tourism.Safe and efficient transport of goods and services including workers and customers impact all Idahoans. Our roads have deteriorated in many instances, especially given the weight and speed restrictions occurring on both federal and state highways. Our neighbors in Washington and Montana are not burdened with similar restrictions.

It is understandable on county and local roads but not our all-weather highways. Idaho needs, and I support, the collection of additional revenue from any source benefiting from our highways. Many sources exist to cover the $200 million shortfall we have facing us.

We are already heavily taxed and no one is flush with extra funds. However, there is a greater need at stake here. We should come together and support our legislators as they work to find ways to fairly support the Idaho Transportation Department's road maintenance, repair and improvement programs. If we do not, roads will continue to fall into disrepair, business will suffer and fatalities on the highways will rise. Please encourage Sen. Keough and others to resolve this contentious issue for the benefit of all.

BOB BEOH

Sandpoint