Disagreement with government proposals is as true as it ever was, dating back to 1787 when the Federalists supported ratification of the U.S. Constitution and the Anti-Federalists dissented. The Federalists won, of course, insuring room in our democracy to air pro and con opinions publically.
But sometimes in that mix come myths and misconceptions that, like urban legends, take on a life of their own to become strong rallying points with no foundation in actual research or study results. And so it goes with the campaign to derail the South Shore commuter rail expansion before it even leaves the station.
Even now, Northwest Indiana needs a thoroughly integrated transportation system to relieve congested highways and high gasoline consumption while providing economic development opportunities that include easy and efficient access to jobs locally and in Chicago.
Some want to stop the South Shore project to prevent urban sprawl. With or without commuter rail extended to Lowell and Valparaiso, urban sprawl is here to stay in southern Lake County and throughout Porter County. Our current transportation system isn't keeping pace with residential developments and shifting populations.
The old north vs south argument surfaces in Lake County as some fear that commuter transit improvements in south county will somehow shortchange the north. Study the rail alignment map. It shows both the Valparaiso and Lowell line will use existing track and new stations in Hammond, freeing up crowded parking space in East Chicago and Gary.
Others suggest limousines for public transportation to Chicago. The federal government, providing half of the money for the new project, does not acknowledge limousines with their low gas mileage as viable mass transit.
Granted, the $500 million local match for $1 billion total cost is a big stack of change. For those who absolutely resist putting a dime of tax money toward the future quality of life in Northwest Indiana, consider this. The recent Calumet, Kennedy and Cline avenue exit and entrance ramp improvements alone on Interstate 80/94 totaled $500 million in state and federal tax dollars with nary a dissent from the public.
Second thoughts are never given to government-funded streets and highways that we drive on to work, school, appointments, shopping and recreation. Give transit riders going to and from work their share of that subsidy.
- The opinions are solely those of the writer. Contact her at janetcopywrite@sbcglobal.net.
