Let’s Get Smart on Tollway Technology

My appreciation is extended to Dana Parsons for an informative “expose” on Jon Brand’s idea for burying the tollway (“Bury the Tollway? Officials Override an Intriguing Idea,” March 13). Mr. Parsons did super background research in presenting other comments as to its feasibility. Maybe Brand’s tunnel deserves a second review.

I wonder why the tunnel alternative hadn’t been publicized more openly and intensely a couple of years earlier? Is it that some brains are just now starting to surface? Is it that the greenbelt proponents took too hard a stand in being too obstinate over any compromise?

The tollway tunnel could be a worthwhile panacea, even if expensive. Its consideration may be a sensible start to depolarizing the emotional viewpoints in this important coastal issue. The environmentalists with gnatcatcher fever, the business opportunists with real risks in hand, the caring artistic aestheticians, the future tourists and home purchasers with money to give continuing viability to south Orange County all need to be considered within the knowledge that the ideal climate and lack of smog make the area unique and desirable.

Maybe Jon Brand’s tunnel idea is too late, too expensive, too farsighted for our present needs, but thank you, Dana Parsons, for presenting his proposal.

JOHN M. NOOTBAAR, South Laguna