WaysSouth

We’ve recently received great news on both the North Carolina and Tennessee sides of Corridor K.

In North Carolina, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has recently agreed with our position that the North Carolina Department of Transportation must consider upgrading the existing two-lane roads in Graham County as an alternative to building a new four-lane highway. In a letter dated October 20, 2009, the Corps stated that “we agree that the alternative of upgrading and improving existing two-lane roadways should be given full consideration as a practical alternative.” The letter specifically cited “the numerous comments received in response to the public notice” as part of the basis of its decision. As a result of this order, NCDOT will now have to prepare a new draft Environmental Impact Statement and conduct another round of public notice and comment. See the Corps letter and the press release we and other groups issued in response.

In Tennessee, the state Department of Transportation recently issued the list of alternatives it will consider, and the list includes upgrading existing Highway 64 as well as both two- and four-lane new construction alternatives. Preliminary cost estimates show that upgrading Highway 64 is by far the most fiscally responsible option. See the list of options and accompanying map.

Thanks to everyone who has made their opinions known to the Corps and the DOTs for making these great results possible, and let’s keep the pressure on the agencies to do the right thing when they make their final decisions!

Welcome to WaysSouth, where you can come together with others to protect the southern Appalachians and nearby Piedmont communities. From our work to stop Interstate 3 to our efforts to find an alternative to Corridor K, WaysSouth is filling a niche that has long been neglected.

We are working to find ways for people and goods to move in and through the southern Appalachians by means that protect the special place that so many call home, a place that also draws millions of visitors annually to experience its ways: unique heritage, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities.

Our work focuses on three primary areas:

* We seek alternatives to destructive highway projects both now and in the future.
* We evaluate modes of transportation and their benefits and costs.
* We work with experts to assess the economic needs of communities in the region and how they are affected by transportation.

Using the expertise we have developed, we engage in dialogue and negotiation with state departments of transportation, regional planning agencies, county and city governments and local leaders to develop common goals and vision for meeting transportation needs while preserving the special qualities of Appalachia.

We continue to develop partnerships with universities, agencies and other nonprofit organizations. We believe that our goal of a prosperous southern Appalachia whose special environmental, historic and cultural qualities are preserved and enhanced is shared by all those who recognize the unique qualities of the region.

WaysSouth:

Responsible Transportation in Appalachia