Vote Yes on 1A: Our Valleys Depend on County Roads

Vote Yes on 1A: Our Valleys Depend on County Roads

Editor,

The curiosity of how the Elk and West Elk mountains formed lured me into a geology degree at Western in the 1970’s. I have always pondered what is so unique about Gunnison County. Well, it’s the geology - of course! But there is more – it is the plenitude of valleys and tributary valleys that make our backyard so uniquely accessible. How do we reach most of those valleys and cross their rivers: County roads and bridges. Yes, those too often bumpy, potholey, dusty, muddy and sometimes dangerous roads.

Should we not treat our primary access roads to our over 1.7 million acres of public lands with more respect? Our vehicles and sore backs would. There is a partial solution before us. It is County Ballot Question 1A.

Background: The county maintains 419 miles of roads (majority dirt), plus 48 bridges and major culverts, yet only 36% of roads are in good condition and deferred maintenance tops $38 million. Property taxes can't be used for roads and the state gas-tax fund (the main source of road funding) hasn't increased since 1993. So here comes 1A to the rescue.

Measure 1A is a half-cent sales tax dedicated solely to county roads and bridges. It would raise about $3.8 million a year–enough to close that $38 million backlog. As a sales tax, the cost is spread out fairly and shared by all of us: full and part-time residents, visitors and tourists. A local funding source such as 1A can also unlock state and federal grants that require a match significantly increasing our return on investment. Maintaining roads is cheaper than rebuilding them, so passing 1A now saves us money in the long run. Makes sense.

Poor roads already cost residents an estimated $800 a year in vehicle wear and tear. And who knows how many chiropractor appointments! We're paying either way. 1A is the smarter way.

On November 3, please vote yes on 1A. A landscape of mountains and valleys we can't reach safely is one we can't care for, use or enjoy. 1A abets reliable access to our valleys open for ranchers, recreationalists, families, school buses, emergency responders, and the generations who will inherit them.

Peter Dea