FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hershman Endorses U.S. 24 Route
(STATEHOUSE) —State Senator Brandt Hershman (R-Wheatfield), in continued discussions with the Indiana Department of Transportation, has expressed support for bridge alternate No. 2 for U.S. 24 in Monticello .
Despite INDOT's evaluation for a long-term resolution, residents and tourist's traveling this life-threatening route deserve an effective and expeditiously determined alternative. Vehicles, especially semi-trucks and school buses, traveling across the Washington Street/U.S. 24 bridge are at great risk of fatal accidents caused by both collisions with other vehicles and bridge slide-offs. “I have had numerous discussions with residents, business owners, and local officials of the City of Monticello and feel that it is in the best interest of this community to favorably consider this relocation route,” Hershman said in a letter to INDOT Commissioner Tom Sharp.
Hershman said that he believes alternate No. 1 would create hardship for business owners, local customers, and tourists who contribute to the area's economic vitality. The first alternate route would also eliminate heavily utilized driveways, entrances, and parking spaces from businesses, government offices, and historical sites along U.S. 24 and Broadway Street . Since the April 3, 1974 tornado, Monticello citizens have had concerns with preserving their Historical Museum in the historic Carnegie Building and have had hopes of proceeding with a Tornado Memorial site and River Walkway. Alternate No. 2 would allow for the maintenance and development of the county seat's historic attractions.
Hershman also urged INDOT to provide advanced warning to businesses who could qualify for early acquisition programs, saying these programs will help in hardship cases.
Hershman represents Senate District 7, which includes Carroll, Clinton, Howard, Jasper, Tippecanoe, and White Counties
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