Its an approach favored by Hoosier environmentalists, who want U.S. 41 upgraded from Evansville to Terre Haute before linking with Interstate 70 to Indianapolis. Bringing U.S. 41 to interstate standards would require the consumption of additional farmland and the displacement of homes and businesses. But it would keep the route far from the Hoosier National Forest. Yet, business interests could still benefit from the new highway through the upgrade of existing state roads that would link small towns to I-69. Job-creating development could occur along these routes without sacrificing the natural beauty of southwestern Indiana.
Economic development remains essential.
Hoosiers, however, need not destroy our natural resources to gain financial success. Focused but unhurried public debate that addresses both needs must continue. Excerpted from the Indianpolis Star, May 16, 2001. Copies of the complete article are available for purchase from the archives of the Star .