I-69 decision needed

The situation surrounding I-69 has seen its fair share of debate. The interstate would potentially run parallel with State Road 37, beginning in Indianapolis and running through Evansville, extending through Texas, connecting to roads as far as Mexico and Central America. It's thought that the interstate would potentially decrease commute times at the cost of destroying the ecosystem. \nThere are those who are opposed and feel it will destroy natural resources and put already endangered species in danger. Farmers will drastically lose their land value, which in some cases, is their family inheritance. Pollution from the interstate in rural areas would be a hazard to their pocketbooks. \nOn the other hand, there are those who favor the new interstate and claim it will save time and add to the economic development of the areas it affects. Every economy needs the maximum amount of thoroughfares to move goods and people in the quickest manner \npossible. \nWhether for or against the interstate, the IDS feels it is time to decide what is ultimately going to happen. Both sides have been going around and around and a compromise in the future doesn't seem likely. Everyone is aware of the options, the pros and cons and the attitudes toward it. We should get on with the decision and start making the adjustments toward whatever the outcome is instead of pussyfooting around the decision. Waiting only elongates the decision-making process, costs money and continues to divide those who are for it and those who are against it.\nWhile it is always positive to hear from advocates on all different sides of an issue, forums like the Bloomington update and hearing sponsored by the Department of Transportation Thursday do little to promote progress. We all know how the different sides feel about I-69 and we have for some time. Let's make a decision and stick with it. The immediacy of the issue is as important as its impact.\nThe state of Indiana has already dished out millions of dollars to engineers, surveyors and experts over the 15 years of deliberation thus far. When the decision is made, we can begin to use the money for the actual cause. And we think they should start saving too, because if approved, the project isn't slated to be finished until 2018 -- and that's only a projected date.