Bypass a bum deal
“All the other communities along US 29 have bypasses [‘Albemarle road race,’ August 2]!” “All the other kids have needles sticking out of their arms!” Lemmings jump off a cliff too. Just because other entities are doing something stupid does not mean you should.
VDOT should have bought up the rights of way along US 29 long ago, then we would not be in this mess. Again, the cost of ANY new road is INFINITE! VDOT wake up!
A good smooth transportation system IS a means of increasing economic efficiency. In this, I agree with Lynchburg and Danville. However, bypasses are NOT the way to go.
The expressway always was the best option, but failing that incremental improvements in existing roads—like another lane from Hydraulic Road to US 29 South dedicated to the turn off—would be more cost effective and the expressway should not be that hard to build. Eight lanes already. Bypass. A bypass to the bypass. A bypass to the bypass to the bypass as development at Forest Lakes clearly shows is going to happen. VDOT obviously has more money than it knows what to do with. Money that could be used for more important priorities.
A smoothe 29 is required, but doing it stupidly is inefficient and a waste of taxpayer dollars when money is tight. I do not mind the government spending my money when they work smart, but the bypass is not smart.
James E. Shifflett, Jr.
Charlottesville
Beer or wine?
Excellent article, Megan. One of the things I find so charming about Charlottesville and neighboring counties is the wonderful juxtaposition of farmers, academics, environmentalists and other assorted vintage locals. You captured this marvelously in this article (“When fine dining calls for fine beer”), especially….and I read the other comment from the reader who felt it was condescending. On the contrary, I enjoyed it immensely, particularly since I was just sitting down to read C-ville’s BBQ issue where you tasted beaucoup amounts of bbq in the name of journalism. A big, greasy thumbs up to you…and keep those articles coming, C-ville!
Local wine and beer enthusiast,
Michele Armentrout
Hot Tomato
For those of you who missed the Tomato Celebration Dinner at Rapture [last week]… eat your heart out because you missed a momentous meal! From start to finish–– inspired dishes each one superbly served, deliciously tasteful, perfectly paired with wonderful wines. Truly a memorable meal. Congratulations to Chef Chris Humphrey and all the staff. Hope to see some of the dishes on your regular menu.
Thank you again,
Chris and Wendy Grove
South Africa