To the Editor:
I have read about the possible resolutions to the Interstate 81 project. None of these solutions seem really practical. One leaves the status quo, while creation of a boulevard will create a hassle for anyone trying to access areas immediately west or east of the city.
I would like the engineers and politicians to consider another solution. In downtown St. Paul, Minn., a similar dilemma existed. The State Capitol would be separated from downtown St. Paul by Interstate 94. Their solution was to build the interstate below grade level. This allowed the interstate traffic to pass through the city without any huge delays. On the major roads going between the capital and the city were overpasses over the interstate, with on- and off-ramps allowing access to either the Capitol or the city from the interstate.
This below-grade solution is also being used in Chicago. The traffic on the Dan Ryan Expressway passes below overpasses from O'Hare Airport, thus allowing the planes to cross over the expressway. The climate in St. Paul and Chicago is similar to Syracuse's weather; volumes might vary, but not enough to prevent this from being doable in Syracuse.
I believe building a below-grade interstate would solve the separation between Syracuse University and downtown, and also allow for a beautiful boulevard alongside the interstate.
For best of both worlds, build I-81 below grade
To the Editor: