We have yet to even have a "need" given for this project given as required in the FDOT PD&E Manual after 4 years of state spending on this project. It was my understanding that Florida's Turnpike Enterprise was to be run like a business. My research indicates that even after the bonds are repaid in 2029 for the first phase of this project, Suncoast Parkway - Project 1, nearly $1/4 of a billion dollars will still be outstanding based on the revenue forecasts by the state's own consultant, URS. I would be happy to provide you my data on this "Turkey.".

Why should we continue with the next phase if it's to be run like a business and why should federal dollars be used to finance a project that is "advertised" to the public as being supported by user fees, i.e., tolls? Presently Florida's Turnpike Enterprise is asking for $160 million of the projected $200 million cost of this second phase to be finance by the federal government. I am sure that the state of Florida has more pressing transportation needs than putting a tollroad through the middle of land that the state just bought for conservation lands under your leadership in order to get to Red Level, Florida, an unincorporated area of maybe 200 families.

This sandhill conservation land is the primary recharge area or springshed for Citrus County's first magnitude springs and part of one of the world's most unique and prolific spring systems. The conservation lands located in Citrus County that both the state and federal govenment have spent tens of millions purchasing form a priceless amenity to attract high-paying jobs to the emerging Tampa Bay area. These fragile ecosystems cannot suppport both tract development and remain as viable ecosytems. This proposed tollroad would completely sever the link between over 100,000 acres lying along the Gulf and another 150,000 acres lying inland and along the Withlacoochee River. The very survival of the Chassohowitzka black bear population depends on this linkage and has always been a goal of the state's immense conservation land purchases in this area.

The following article shows that at least the remainder of the project will be discussed in an open forum as required by the state Sunshine Law.

http://www.sptimes.com/2004/08/10/Citrus/Parkway_sessions_open.shtml

I ask that you put an end to this business fiasco and protect the huge investment Florida has already made in preserving its natural resources.

Sincerely yours,

Robert F. Roscow

[August 10, 2004]