On Thu, 9 Nov 1995, Diane Prorak wrote:
> A few thoughts on some positive aspects of the proposed business park:
>
> 1) As Ray pointed out, the land proposed for development was already
> zoned motor business. So while I agree that Hwy. 8 traffic is a problem
> that really should be worked on before development, the alternative, in
> my opinion, of motor businesses was worse in terms of traffic. I
> would very feel differently about this project if it were outside the
> city on land zoned for ag/forestry or something like that.
>
> 2) Diversification: We tell timber-dependent communities that they need
> to diversify to fit the changing world. I think state government, which
> includes universities, will be changing also -- probably downsizing.
> Moscow probably does need to diversify some more in this climate.
>
> 3) Jobs for spouses: To attract and retain people at the universities,
> spouses often need good jobs. A business park could provide some of
> those. This particular proposal isn't so big as to create a huge influx
> of people, though I will admit that future actions could lead to more
> growth than we bargained for.
>
> 4) The proposal includes some possible accommodations for
> bicyclists/pedestrians that would never come about through a motor
> business. The sidewalks and linear park could help to improve
> non-motorized use on the Troy highway.
>
> I've had mixed feelings on this issue (especially the financing), but I
> think it also has merit as I've mentioned above. I just wish they could
> be improving the "blighted" area.
>
> Diane Prorak
> prorak@uidaho.edu
>
>
>
>