To the editor:

We applaud Les Hannon’s review and assessment of the issues surrounding the South Lawrence Trafficway construction (Journal-World, Feb. 23). There is a need to move in a positive direction to put this project ahead of the special interests that have stalled the progress and think about the community as a whole.

The recent announcement by the Kansas Turnpike Authority that they intend to build an interchange for Tonganoxie was characterized as “lousy for Lawrence” by our city officials. We believe that there could have been a different alignment chosen by KTA for that project had the South Lawrence Trafficway already been planned and under way.

Therefore, we need to take the steps necessary to insure that the community as a whole can benefit from a decision that is long overdue. If we don’t, the decision may be made for us by other factors that could make it “lousy for Lawrence” as well.

Dan and Jay Haugh,

Lawrence