KVSA Position on the State Highway 131 Reconstruction

The Kickapoo Valley Stewardship Alliance (KVSA) believes that an appropriate road design for State Highway 131 would balance safety and local transportation needs with preservation of this environmentally and histroically unique and beautiful valley.

"Improved," flattened, straightened, widened, faster Highway 131 between Rockton and La Farge.	Unique existing Highway 131 between Ontario and Rockton slated for "improvements."

Highway 131 between Rockton and Ontario should be upgraded for local use, enhancing tourism and improving safety. The reconstruction should follow the existing road alignment and grade with only minor adjustments at the most dangerous curves.

And absolute priority should be given to minimizing the impact on the scenic and scientific value and tranquility of this narrow valley. The area should be protected by 4(f) status which would allow for the most appropriate road design for this setting, and guarantee future protection.

The KVSA strongly objects to the intended use as a major transporation throughway for long-haul trucking. A lower speed limit would allow preservation of many of the hills that make this orute so scenic while also discouraging through truck traffic that would be destructive in this wildlife refuse and tourism setting.