Few were surprised by the announcement, which drew praise and scorn. They basically are thumbing their nose at the public. Ottawa Mayor Charles Gillette said he hopes the KDOT decision will signify an end to the divisive issue. Legal threats KDOT spokesman Marty Matthews said the announcement isn't necessarily final. The state must complete an environmental assessment, complete field surveys and do preliminary design work.
Construction is at least seven years away.
And freeway opponents promise to fight KDOT's every step. The Franklin-Douglas Counties Coalition of Concerned Citizens has retained Bruce Plenk and Bob Eye, attorneys who helped stop the eastern leg of the South Lawrence Trafficway. We will talk with the coalition and do what everybody else decides to do. Carlson seemed unconcerned by the threat of litigation. The process is set up for them to air their concerns.