27.0°

The dubious $200-some million "estimated" for the road to create a "travel option," plus substantial annual maintenance costs in perpetuity, is a phenomenal investment with little or no clear public objective. The road, as proposed, will destroy the east side of Lynn Canal both as a construction project and more importantly as access to those who would exploit - recklessly plink, vandalize and litter the area. The road will be closed between Juneau and Skagway or be extremely dangerous for many days during winter due to ice, avalanche, landslides and wind. I also know that even if a road were built, the White and Haines passes are frequently undriveable, or closed altogether, during winter months.

Road access to Juneau will not enhance the quality of life in Juneau, Skagway or Haines and Juneau infrastructure is nowhere near prepared for the increased traffic of independent vehicular tourism.

Juneau is merely one of hundreds of roadless communities in Alaska. And the roadless nature of so many communities is what helps retain that character of "smallness" that Bob Weeden once so eloquently asserted of Alaska. A road to Skagway will make no difference to those who want the economic gain of moving the capital north.

Lastly, the people of Juneau, who are predominantly public employees, as well as the community of Skagway have already spoken - no road. What part of that is so difficult to understand? Perhaps for those who so desperately need access to the continental road system should contemplate a move?

Scott Williams

Fairbanks