Knik Arm Bridge a positive change

To the editor:

A bridge to the future — this is what the Knik Arm Bridge is.

I have lived in the Valley for 50-plus years, and I have seen lots of change; some well-thought-out plans and some happenstance. It changed when we moved here with four children. Now there are four generations with 40 in my immediate family.

Today we have the opportunity to change with a well-thought-out plan, a change that will develop our Valley, contribute to the state economy and change the landscape in Southcentral for generations to come. Today we have the opportunity to build the Knik Arm Bridge.

I remember the old days — party phone lines, weeklong delays for television programs and few paved roads. Today, I look forward to seeing the good changes that have come about with the hard work of people who care and make this a place where families can live, work, play and prosper. I want strong Alaska communities with opportunities for our children, grandchildren and even our great-grandchildren to get great educations, good jobs and affordable homes to raise their families in. I want those who love Alaska to have the opportunity to stay and impact our state in a positive way.

Building the Knik Arm Bridge crossing is a project that will provide immediate jobs — 1,500 jobs per year for four years. People working good jobs that pay good wages gain experience that will go on building the future of our state.

The benefits do not end with the completion of the bridge. Point McKenzie has 9,000 acres in its industrial district that will be just five miles from Anchorage. What an opportunity this will be for entrepreneurs. Anchorage is out of large tracts of developable land. On the north side, land is available. The bridge will do much to stimulate the economy. The bridge will not just benefit the Valley, but it will benefit Anchorage, Fairbanks and Kenai as well, all seeing opportunities for growth.

Polls show statewide support. Join us in building the future with the Knik Arm Crossing Bridge.

Janet Kincaid

Palmer