Editor,

I am extremely disappointed that the “connector” on Central Whidbey is now scheduled to be built.

Perhaps the overwhelming public opinion expressed against this “connector” has been forgotten by the Island County commissioners? The last public open house about this project had an overflow crowd expressing disapproval of this project.

In the intervening years, I have not been aware of any other public meetings.

I have lived here for over 30 years and have never seen this part of the highway closed for more than a brief time.

Spending $4.046 million of taxpayer money seems ridiculous for an unnecessary road. The road will also disrupt a pristine wildlife area.

My common sense solution, expressed verbally and in writing at the meeting several years ago, was to build a decent gravel road, with gates at both ends.

This road would be opened only when an emergency occurs. The Race Road firehouse is at one end of the proposed “connector” and could easily be responsible to open the emergency connector for the time it was needed.

I imagine the full cost of a 1.5-mile gravel road would be less than $500,000.

Since this idea makes sense and saves money, I truly wonder who is benefiting from this “connector.”

Mary Ellen O’Connor

Coupeville