August 25, 2006

 

 

Dear Friends,

 

Thank you for gathering at this important occasion that marks the completion of a great deal of work by countless individuals.  The end result of all these great federal, state, and local efforts is an interchange that will facilitate better transportation throughout our region.  The residents of Dexter, Stoddard County, and every traveler on Route 60 have a reason to be proud of the importance we place on our roads in rural America.

 

When you think about the network of highways criss-crossing Southern Missouri, it is important to reflect on the fact that they connect more than town to town.  They connect children to our schools, first responders to emergencies, goods to our stores, workers to their jobs, and people to one another. It is hard for someone from an urban area to understand what it is like to drive 40 miles to work each day, but here in Southern Missouri, we know a good road is vital to that daily routine.

 

Good roads and transportation infrastructure are also vital to the public safety.  This interchange is going to contribute to the goal of making our roads as safe as possible to travel.  I want to congratulate the City of Dexter, Stoddard County, and the folks from MODOT on the completion of a very successful project.  Thank you all for your tremendous efforts and a job well done!

 

 

                                                                Very sincerely,

 

                                                               JO ANN EMERSON
                                                               Your Representative in Congress