Damn Fine Question, Ms. Wiltz!

From Saturday's Letters to the Editor, Journal Star:

I would like someone from the city administration or City Council to explain how a big project like the Murray Baker Bridge can be completed in six months but a one-mile stretch of Forrest Hill, from University to Sterling, cannot be completed in two years. Doesn't the city require performance bonds? The contractor working from the Forrest Hill overpass to Sterling has shown no regard for those of us who use this street. The portion of the road we are required to drive on is so very rough that it wreaks havoc with our car shocks and suspension. I have never before experienced anything like it.

On many days there have been no workers present. This stretch is essential for students going back and forth to Woodrow Wilson School. A viable business that had many years of success, Velvet Freeze, was forced to close because two years was too long to withstand the financial impact this project caused.

We lived through the Sterling improvement and have nothing but praise for the Walsh Company and its workers. I used to think we should always give local companies priority consideration, but if it is going to result in such inept handling then they should be put at the very bottom of any contract list.

A performance bond should always be required with a timely date of completion set. We deserve to know when this project will be finished. The road east of Sterling isn't half done and it has been torn up since April.

Rosemary Wiltz

Peoria

Didn't Gary Sandberg bring this up at a recent Council meeting? I have a sick feeling buying the water company would solve the problem....