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August 5, 2003 To: Historic Preservation Commission From: Martha Choitz, HPC Commissioner Subject: U.S. 31 Road Improvement Impact It is my view that the Staff Report of the Historic Preservation Commission dated 6/30/03 is excellent in setting out the details regarding the placement of the intended highway improvements from the historic realities of the area. It should be carefully studied by all that will be making the decisions regarding the exact location of the new road, and its implications for future planning for the area between southern South Bend and U. S. 6 south of Lapaz, Indiana. Alternatives A & B would cause harm to the historical buildings and sites along their routes. A's path is interesting in that it joins the parkway to continue U. S. 31 north into Michigan. I would agree that Alternative C provides a greater degree of protection for the historic sites along its path and it brings the traffic in not on Michigan Street but slightly to the west, offering the city the opportunity to create a more welcoming atmosphere to travelers. However, close study of Alternative D clearly shows that there is less impact on historic sites and still makes use of the traditional south entry to South Bend. The problem is still that by not using the original roadbed, the very dangerous crossroads of Kern and New and others will still exist and be a danger after their highway designation is no longer on them. Alternative E is not superior to above. Alternative F is a sound one both from a historic viewpoint and that it uses the current road in the area above mentioned that has extremely dangerous intersections, which would be turned into overpasses and therefore eliminate the grade crossings where most of the accidents have occurred for many years. The Staff Report clearly shows the devastation that would occur to the historic structures in Alternatives G. H. and I