Hope new board will tackle Route 53

On Nov. 13, the Herald published the proposed road projects for 2009. The list shows that Lake County is trying to unclog our roads. This is a herculean project, these are needed improvements but still they don't focus on the major problem afflicting Lake County. Traveling north to south continues to be an absolute hassle. I have not and do not see any improvement to this problem. During the summer, it took no less than 40 minutes to travel from the Grayslake area to Arlington Heights. This is an unacceptable waste, not only of time but also fuel. This travel causes increased traffic to already clogged local streets through towns like Mundelein, Buffalo Grove and even Long Grove. Along with the clogged streets this also increases the pollution to these localities.

Since moving to Lake County 11 years ago I have heard about the extension of Route 53. Every year since, I have heard that we need to extend Route 53. Every year nothing happens on this project. I understand the complaints from some that 53 will increase growth in Lake County. The growth has already occurred. Our local streets are clogged and at times impassable. The development factor is easily solved.

1. Limit the number of entrances to the new road. Have entrances at Lake-Cook Road, Tri-state Tollway, Route 83 and Route 176. These would unclog the local roads, increase our safety, reduce our pollution and decrease our fuel consumption. This should make the anti-growth and environmentalist happy.

2. Place a green corridor along the entire length of the new road. The corridor should extend 2-3 miles from the edges of Route 53. No NEW development should ever be allowed to occur in this corridor. This will allow Lake County to retain its rural feel and charm. This should satisfy the anti-growth and environmentalist concerns.

3. The road should be Toll road. I believe we would be happy to pay a toll of $1.00 to $1.50. The reduction in the waste of time and fuel would offset this toll every time the road is traveled. The toll should be at each entrance. The road would pay for itself. It will save wear and tear on local roads and reduce the amount of pollution in the area. The reduction in semitrailer traffic itself on the local roads would be a great relief.

The extension of Route 53 is long overdue. It is and has always been needed for the health of Lake County. I hope the new county board will give new thought to extending Route 53. If not we all will be spinning our wheels, or rather sitting in traffic, for another decade.

William Storino Hainesville