I don't what would be the point of including any part of an already re-built Hwy 99 into some federal system or other. Unless, it then received additional federal money. But that ain't gonna happen unless there is additional work to be paid for. But the original premise here was that this might occur after all the work is already done. 'Tain't happenin!


As for slow, never ending construction projects, we've seen a number of them around here. I checked with the city as to when one of them (that would help me out) was scheduled to be finished. It's been months. They told me there is no schedule. But that instead, the contractor is allowed to use the project as a filler, to keep his workers employed during the inevitable and unpredictable slack times which are typical of the construction business.

In return for this, the city then takes a massive discount (40% to 60%) on the contract, just enough to pay for materials, fixed overhead, labor, and just a little extra. As long as it's not a time critical project, this is a win/win for everybody. The city even tries to maintain a back log list for a number of competing contractors, and thus helps keep everyone employed.

Of course, it then requires some patience on the part of us citizens. But that is a fair trade for lower costs and lower taxes; not to mention helping to stabilize employment in the bargain. It is nice to see some smarts and flexibility being displayed at city hall for a change.