(La Porte County, IN) - A proposal to convert U.S 30 into more of an interstate is moving forward.  In response, La Porte County officials are considering the possibility of joining the U.S. 30 coalition.

 

Every county along U.S. 30, except La Porte, is a member of the coalition which would have a voice in how the highway is reconstructed if the project happens.  The idea is making sure the upgrades are designed a manner that limits the impact on residents and property owners such as farmers.

 

Al Stevens, president of the South County Coalition, said the annual membership fee for each county is $15,000.  “The last thing we want is a farmer to have to drive a 10 mile circle to get to a field across the street from his house,” he said.

 

Tony Rodriguez, Executive Director of the La Porte County Office of Economic and Community Development, said more stars seem to be lining up for the project many years in the talking stage to happen.  An environmental impact study has been ordered by the state, which is standard procedure before a final decision is made on whether to go ahead with any major project. 

 

If the projects materializes, U.S. 30 would be reconstructed to reduce traffic lights and intersections for quicker and safer travel.