Our quality of life is at stake

What kind of mentality does it require for the N.C. Senate to pass a law restricting alternative means of transportation, legislation that could improve our physical and environmental health? Shouldn't North Carolinians seek more rail transit, bike and pedestrian projects?

Our Senate has amended House Bill 817 prohibiting state funding of passenger rail service, as well as much-needed pedestrian and bike improvements?

Shouldn’t such programs be allowed to compete on their own merits?

Should we not increasingly rely on other means of transportation as automobiles predominately consume oil that pollutes our environment?

Let us oppose Senate changes to HB 817 so to ensure that passenger rail and, bike and pedestrian projects can compete for state and regional funding. Economic development, healthy communities and our quality of life are at stake.

— Lew Patrie
Asheville

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