BY CHARLES F. HABER, Times of Northwest Indiana Correspondent
HIGHLAND | The Town Council has not railed against an extension of the South Shore Line through town, but hasn't offered an endorsement either.
After a presentation earlier this week from Karen Lauerman, of the Northwest Indiana Forum, council members agreed the line would be convenient but said it also could derail Highland's limited resources.
The proposed extension would go as far south as Lowell and as far east as Valparaiso, Lauerman said.
If it gains approval, the $500 million project would be at least four years down the line. In the meantime, U.S. Rep. Pete Visclosky, D-Ind., is asking the communities along the way for official support.
The council took no official action on the matter.
Lauerman said about 40 percent of Hoosiers who ride the South Shore Line live south of Ridge Road. An extension with a station in Highland would save them about 30 minutes in travel time, she said.
In addition, development is expected around the line and other sources of revenue and economic drivers are expected to follow, Lauerman said.
Town Councilman Joseph Wszolek, R-4th, said development would lower the town's overall property tax rate but would not help pay for expanded police, public works and parks services.
Communities in Illinois benefit from the transit systems and their depots, Town Manager Richard Underkofler said.
"(But) Indiana cities and towns have been denied a local option sales tax by the state Legislature," he said.
Wszolek said he was not necessarily opposed to the extension, because it has the potential to enhance the town's future.
Councilman Mark Herak, R-2nd, said the train line would be a great convenience but agreed a station and related growth could pose a burden on the town and its limited budget.
Councilman Bernie Zemen, D-1st, said after the meeting that he wants to study the proposal further before deciding whether to support it.
"I think I would have to find out if they are planning a depot in Highland before I jump on board with this project," he said.
Lauerman said there are tentative plans to build stations in Munster, Highland, Griffith and other communities.
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