Letter to the Editor: Route 53 Expansion Shouldn't Be Priority

This letter was written and submitted by Jane Partridge.

To draw attention to transportation issues, the Illinois Dept. of Transportation recently asked the public what its priorities should be.

However, the priorities already are listed in its mission, they just aren’t always followed.

First and foremost -- safety. Bridges and roads must be fixed. If safety, as stated, is the number one priority, infrastructure must be in acceptable condition and remain that way. Unfortunately, the deferred maintenance backlog is growing and safety is at risk. This is not tolerable.

Second -- mobility: IDOT’s stated mission is to reduce congestion and increase mobility. Building new roads does not reduce congestion. Getting cars off the roads does. After maintenance, the priority should be to improve intermodal connections with trains, planes, and other public transportation. Additionally, IDOT, working with CMAP, should promote other modes of transportation. This will have the added benefit of helping the environment and improving air quality.

Thirdly -- economic prosperity: If there is a perceived need to promote economic development, put it where it will do the most good; such as in often overlooked Waukegan and North Chicago, and not where politically motivated or self-interested people are pushing.

And finally -- providing cost-effective transportation. This is what has gotten out of hand, fiscal responsibility. The Route 53 extension boondoggle has never been cost-effective and never will be. Millions of dollars have been wasted on this pipe dream. Funds could have been used to repair current roads/bridges, and expand east-west roads in Lake County. There continue to be new schemes to find $2.6 billion, or $200 million dollars per mile. IDOT can’t afford 53, the Tollway can’t afford 53, and the taxpayers can’t afford 53. Quit wasting time, energy, and money.

Stick with the priorities: safety, mobility, and economic development where it will do the most good. And include fiscal responsibility as you make no little plans.

Jane Partridge

Lake Forest