James W. Martin
PO Box 430
Willcox, Arizona 85643

December 12, 2007


Chairman Joe Lane and Members
Arizona State Board of Transportation
206 S. 17^th Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona 85007

Dear Chairman Lane and Members,

The decision making process for the State Transportation Board is quite difficult. The needs of Arizona consist of present and future problems. Immediate problems are difficult enough without having to peer into a crystal ball. The State of Arizona requires that a balanced approach needs to be taken in solving the state’s future needs.

Would you please consider the thoughts of an old haggard ex-member of the Board when considering the issues concerning the proposed I-10 Bypass.

I. TUCSON-PIMA COUNTY PLANNING

Historically, the City of Tucson and Pima County have assessed their problems as monumental. The voting public did not share the viewpoints of the planners and rejected several proposals to help solve their issues. The philosophy of the area is basically—no new freeways. This philosophy results in an attempt to move their problems into Cochise County.

II. THE PROCESS

The feasibility study had a Technical Advisory Committee. The area that is to be impacted the most, southern Arizona, was left out of the process. SEAGO was not selected to be on the committee.

III ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

The construction of the proposed bypass will have a severe impact on the environment. The construction problems concerning water flows of the San Pedro or the surrounding mountains are gigantic. I am confident these problems can be overcome, but at what cost?

The mountain terrain that is to be dissected contains species of big horn sheep, mule and whitetail deer, elk (yes elk). The area needs to be preserved for our future generations to enjoy these creatures.

IV.COSTS

The engineers cost estimate for the proposed project is estimated to be six to eight BILLION dollars. The future construction costs combined with the difficulty of construction will surely increase these costs.

The costs equal the next SIXTEEN years funds available to for construction in the state. The costs do not equal the benefit of saving thirty minutes of drive time to Phoenix.

The decision for the future of Arizona is indeed difficult. Please consider these elements when peering into the crystal ball. The southeastern Arizona should be preserved for the future enjoyment of our children and their children.

Yours truly,

James W. Martin