Highway 2: Montana Can Do Better, Wouldn't You Agree?

Dear Editor:

There are so many compelling reasons why Montana needs to step up to the plate or remain forever in lagging behind our neighbors economically. The Theodore Roosevelt Expressway extends to Culbertson from Williston on Highway 2 and then north on Highway 16 to Plentywood and the Port of Raymond.

As I have warned for several years, if Montana doesn't build the four lanes from the state line to Culbertson that has been recommended by two studies, the Transportation Rural Economic Development study and the Environmental Assessment, this would amount to a missed opportunity as Montana would lose a valuable link to Regina (a major hub) and Saskatchewan.

There are some in North Dakota that have been telling Montana for over a decade, that if Montana doesn't show effort, they can go north of Williston to access Saskatchewan.

This shouldn't be taken as a threat but a reality if there continues to be a lack of action in Montana.

North Dakota gets it, as the legislature dedicated $2.3 billion to transportation needs and they are using royalties from oil and gas to do it.

Something to think about. Montana can do better, wouldn't you agree?

Bob Sivertsen, Havre

President

Highway 2 Association