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A recent KSL editorial regarding a compromise plan to get the Legacy Parkway project in Davis County going suggested Utah’s trucking industry shouldn’t oppose the agreement “too vociferously.” As part of the compromise, big rigs would be banned from using the new highway.
David Creer of the Utah Trucking Association offers another viewpoint:
By handicapping truckers on the Legacy Parkway or any other public highway, all citizens of the state are harmed. Trucks haul 85% of the manufactured and processed goods we purchase – including food, fuel, building materials and clothing. The Legacy Parkway deal forces truckers to use less efficient, more costly alternative routes. As a result, transportation costs go up, and consumers will pay more for the goods they buy.
Consider also that banning trucks from a highway paid for, in part, with highway tax dollars collected from the trucking industry is blatantly unjust.
KSL criticizes the trucking industry for congesting roadways and speeding. All truckers are not perfect, but one thing that is certain is that Utah enjoys one of the best truck safety records in the nation.
Trucking is a vital part of our economy that every Utahan can respect and be proud of.
As always, the complete text of Mr. Creer’s reply can be found under the “Editorial” link on our website at www.ksl.com.
