Posted on 12/02/2006 6:21:28 PM PST by Tolerance Sucks Rocks
More than 1 million residents of the Washington-Baltimore region already live close to heavily trafficked motorways where dangerous soot pollution is at levels that can trigger asthma attacks, heart attacks and respiratory disease. Building the $2.4 billion (and rising), 18-mile intercounty connector linking Interstate 270 to Interstate 95 through neighborhoods and near schools would worsen these health problems.
Maryland Gov.-elect Martin O'Malley (D) reiterated his support for the road following his election last month, but if the public demands protection for our children and the elderly, he still could take steps to prevent these health hazards.
The toxic pollution the ICC would generate will threaten the health of children who live, play and attend schools and day-care centers near this proposed highway. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recently recommended protecting children from the harmful effects of air pollution by not locating schools near highways.
California has banned new schools from locations within 500 feet of major highways. Yet located within 500 feet of the proposed ICC route are a school (Drew Elementary) and several parks: East Norbeck Park; Northwest Branch Recreational Park; Layhill Park; Rock Creek Regional Park; and ball fields and playgrounds near Royal Forest in Colesville.
The California law is based on recent research that links motor vehicle emissions and adverse health effects suffered by children. There are numerous studies from around the world that demonstrate that children in neighborhoods adjacent to freeways and major truck routes are at significantly greater risk of serious health impairment from asthma and other respiratory ailments.
(Excerpt) Read more at washingtonpost.com ...
Now if they just build another road across that river we'd be all set. Until they add more development, of course.
Right now the problem is that our liberal county governments are going all out with development (need that campaign money) and doing nothing about roads. That means gridlock, more pollution, and, of course, SICK CHILDREN!!! EEEeeekkkk!!!! WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN?!?!?!?!?!?!
Let me guess. They're still debating on whether or not it should be built.
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