Don't waste money extending Rt. 53

Yes, the Route 53 extension rears its ugly head again, in reference to the July 1 report, "Committee to study potential Route 53 savings," wouldn't it be a better idea to spend the billions of dollars in a more productive way? To wit, the following:

1) Why not widen Route 22 to four lanes between Quentin Road and Route 83? Have these politicians/committees ever commuted eastbound in the morning (and westbound in the evening) during the week? Have they driven Route 22, Palatine Road, Dundee Road? And Lake-Cook isn't a bargain either.

2) Start by repairing the crummy roads we already have, not only in quality, but also width. 3) Widen existing north-south roads. Isn't it interesting that the roads we've traveled in Minnesota, Wisconsin and other northern states are beautiful, despite truck traffic, snow, ice and cold(er) temperatures? Illinois has the highest gasoline taxes in the nation, in addition to too many tolls; where does that money go?

If anyone believes the quoted $450 million to $600 million for the extension will be sufficient, I have a bridge in New York they might like to buy. Don't forget, this is Illinois.

Harold Murtz

Lake Barrington