It's my duty to provide the best quality of life to Hoosiers in southwest Indiana. Particularly, house district 78, yet many issues I face extend further than my district boundaries. The Committee on Roads and Transportation recently passed House Bill 1656 by a vote of 7-5. This bill strongly affects southwestern Hoosiers.
For years we have been waiting for I-69 to be constructed and completed. This is the road that was going to revolutionize Evansville. Finally the three largest cities in Indiana would become conveniently connected. This would boost both intrastate and interstate commerce. The trip to Indianapolis will be cut in half at least. Evansville would be easily accessible so tourist can partake in our nationally recognized events such as The Fall Festival or The Freedom Festival.
More importantly, the effect on the local economy would be tremendous. We are home to several large companies and factories/plants. We have Koch Industries, the Toyota plant, and Ameriqual. All their production most likely will grow because their goods will easily be distributed. Transportation costs will also go down. I-69 will make southwestern Indiana more marketable for businesses to locate here.
Major Moves is the only 10 year fully funded roads-plan in the nation. It has created jobs and made statewide travel easier.
Indiana is pending a $700 million federal stimulus matching. However, it will contain an open period for which the funds must be used. This window will range from 90 - 180 days. HB 1656 could delay the legislative process so much, the federal funds most likely will be forfeited. Even worse, due to poor planning, the legislation has a constructed budget assuming we receive the federal stimulus grant. If Indiana doesn't receive or use the grants, a domino-effect of failing projects will begin. More funds will be redirected. |
