EDITORIAL: Beyond belief to think locals will stop I-69 in Monroe County

Opponents of constructing I-69 through Bloomington have claimed a big victory from action taken by the Bloomington/Monroe County Metropolitan Planning Organization last week. The MPO policy committee failed to include I-69 in its Transportation Improvement Program for fiscal years 2012-2015.

Several members of the committee argued it’s not known how the road through this county will be paid for, where interchanges will be, how the road will affect the environment and more. Also buoying opponents’ hopes was a 23-page letter from lawyers representing anti-I-69 groups arguing that acting to implement design and construction of I-69 in Monroe County before federal highway officials make key decisions about the project violates federal law.

Many long-time I-69 foes said Monday they believe this action could be the first step needed to block the highway from crossing into Monroe County. They believe it’s possible the highway would go past Crane and stop at four-lane Ind. 37.

Their belief is likely just a fantasy.