Here are some interesting facts to consider.
The state Transportation Department is proposing that we spend $1.9 billion on reconstructing and widening Interstate 94 between Illinois and Mitchell Field.
The Kenosha-Racine-Milwaukee commuter rail line has been given zilch. And there is no meaningful plan for any kind of regional transportation upgrade to serve our urban and lower-income residents.
Hold those thoughts while we mention some more facts.
For the first time ever, the price of oil has topped $100 a barrel. Today, oil is almost five times more expensive than it was just five years ago.
If we think that’s going to turn around, here are some more facts to face: oil is getting harder and harder to find and produce. Developing nations that need the oil are asking for it in ever increasing amounts. The countries that have the oil are trying to get their hands on more of the profits. And ethanol made from corn is really just robbing Peter to pay Paul.
So how are we dealing with this situation?
By investing all our money – all our money – into bigger freeways.
Speaking of Mitchell Field, here’s an historical fact: in 1921, General Billy Mitchell, the man the airport was named for, demonstrated how a couple of new fangled things called airplanes could sink a battleship. But the people who built those battleships didn’t want to give up the present and face the future. Mitchell was demoted and eventually court martialed.
Oil. Five times more expensive in just five years, $1.9 billion for roads, nothing for anything else.
Anyone want to buy a battleship?
Bob Welke is chief executive officer of Blue Horse Inc. in Milwaukee. Additional information is available at www.bluehorseinc.com.
