Written by Marion County Sheriff Matt Bayles has publicly declared his opposition to the proposed US 23/I-71 connector project, warning that the new highway could jeopardize public safety and severely disrupt the lives of local property owners.
In an open letter shared on the department’s Facebook page, Sheriff Bayles stated he stands with residents opposing the potential route, which is being considered for an area just north of Waldo. The letter has been forwarded to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), State Representatives McClain and Richardson, and Senator Reineke.
Key Concerns Outlined by the Sheriff
- Delayed Emergency Responses: The Sheriff’s primary concern is public safety. After reviewing project maps at a recent public meeting, Bayles noted that the highway would cut off several existing county roads, creating dead ends. First responders would be forced to detour around the highway, adding vital minutes to response times for medical emergencies, violent crimes, or officers needing immediate backup. “Time means lives,” Bayles stressed in the letter.
- Destruction of Historic Farmland: Bayles questioned the fairness of offering “fair market value” to families who have worked the same land for centuries. He shared the story of one local man whose family has farmed their property since the 1800s; the proposed highway would slice his farm into five separate pieces.
- Plunging Property Values: The Sheriff also voiced concerns for rural homeowners who would suddenly find a four-lane highway in their backyards, warning that their property values would likely drop.
- Alternative Routes Already Exist: Arguing against the necessity of the project, Bayles pointed out that there are already several established connector routes in the region, including US 30 in Wyandot County, SR 95 in Marion County, and routes 36/37 in Delaware County. “We do not need another one in Marion County; the price is too high,” he concluded.
Project Origins
The letter notes that ODOT officials clarified at a recent public informational meeting at the Fairgrounds that the department did not initiate the project. Instead, ODOT is currently conducting a feasibility study in response to requests from state lawmakers in Columbus.