Letter on 'NAFTA superhighway' needs corrections, clarifications

Re the Aug. 27 letter by Janice Teasley, "NAFTA superhighway' is a 'frightening' possibility for America":

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This letter about the TTC-35 roadway project implies a number of issues that deserve to be corrected or clarified.

First and foremost, the letter-writer makes reference to construction of the TTC-35 roadway by Cintra. That is not correct. In reality, Cintra Zachry LP, a partnership consisting of Texas, United States and international firms was hired to develop the master plan of TTC-35 that roughly would parallel Interstate 35 in Texas. While we have proposed to pay the state to finance, build and operate segments of this roadway, our contract was strictly to plan this project based on parameters outlined by the state.

Additionally, all decisions relating to TTC roadway projects - and ultimately their ownership - are in the state's hands. No decision is left to the private sector - as it should be. Decisions regarding rights of way, design, financing, connectors to other roadways, etc., for any TTC project will be directed by the state.

In fact, the state will also determine which parts of the project, if any, will be developed with private sector financing and only after a competitive bidding process would a private-sector builder or operator be selected.

Having worked on successful transportation systems across the United States and the world, we can attest to the fact that with improved roadways such as what the state of Texas is planning for TTC-35, commuters will arrive at their destinations more quickly, hazardous cargo will be diverted from city centers, and Texas families will enjoy greater safety and convenience while traveling on state-of-the-art road systems.

Patrick Rhode

Vice president for corporate affairs

Cintra

Austin, Texas/p>