Reporter-Times Staff Report
Governor Mitch Daniels announced Thursday that Interstate 69 won't be a toll road. The alternative is a toll road beltway they are calling the Indiana Commerce Connector, that would connect Morgan County to Johnson, Shelby, Hancock and Madison counties.
The plan is in the beginning stages and it is unclear exactly how this will affect Martinsville and Morgan County. At right is a synopsis of the plan and below are comments from local leaders about their thoughts on the connector.
Jeff Quyle, Morgan County Commissioner
"If Gov. Daniels gets legislative approval for the beltway, and if we plan for it right, we've got a chance for good things to happen in our community. We can choose to work positively with the planners or we can turn our backs on the process," he said. "I hadn't heard about the beltway - I imagine the economic development people have. But there's always been talk of an outer ring, tying everyone together around Indianapolis.
"It could increase the employment opportunities. And it could improve the quality of life for generations to come."
However, Quyle acknowledged the price landowners in the path of the tollway would pay.
"They will feel a sense of deep, personal loss."
Bill Rumbaugh, Morgan County Plan Commission board member
"The county doesn't have a major east-west road, so this could have a big impact ... this could have an impact on farmers who don't want to sell and on people who do want to sell. You have a beautiful house in Morgan County, and now you'll have a big, noisy road. If they give us (more specific) plans, then we can plan."
Bob Marley, Monrovia Town Council President
"I don't know any more than anyone else who heard about the beltway on the Internet or on TV. But I'd like to know more. I'd like to see better mapping of exactly where it's going to go," Marley said. "I think we need a connection into the southern part of central Indiana - I'm just waiting on more facts. Will it go in west of the airport? How does Plainfield fit in? These are just questions I'd like answers to."
Norman Voyles, president of the Morgan County commissioners
He said it could help the county's economy and reduce traffic congestion, but there could be opposition from farmers and property owners.
"I'm sure some will be opposed to it," he said. "It depends on what the route is."
Ralph Foley, State Representative
"I'm really glad to hear the governor and his people listened to my concerns and the concerns of Morgan County and they have worked to find an innovative plan to achieve important goals.
"What a wonderful opportunity for Morgan County to exercise vision and control over growth and commerce the likes of which we may never have again.
"I can't promise I will vote for the legislation (that makes this project possible) until I see the bill and I'm sure it is of benefit for us in Morgan County."
Bill Herring, Morgan County Park and Recreation Board president
"I've made the comment before, but they should take into account the bike and pedestrian path traffic and only do what they have to do ... Maybe there will be some carrots thrown out to make it look better."