Is a new bypass ramp exit going to be built?

By Kirk Mason (mason@wsbt.com)

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Is a new bypass ramp exit going to be built?

Portage Prairie development sign near proposed exit off U.S.-31.

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Jul 29, 2009 at 10:40 AM EST

Story Updated: Jul 29, 2009 at 12:51 PM EST

SOUTH BEND — South Bend leaders are making a push for federal stimulus money as they push for new job opportunities.

A viewer asked a Good Question: “Why are there surveyors out near the bypass, close to the Michigan state line?”

If you're driving on the bypass north toward Michigan, right before you get to the state line there is a sign that reads “Portage Prairie.”

So far there is some modest development on this site, but developers have aspirations for much more — more industry, medical offices and homes.

But for Portage Prairie to really take off, city leaders argue another bypass exit is needed, and they're turning to the federal government for help.

The economic stimulus package that President Obama supports includes something called TIGER Grants.

City engineer Carl Littrell says surveyors are doing preliminary engineering and environmental work for a new bypass interchange at Adams Road. The hope is that the $20 million project could be paid for through economic stimulus funds.

The grant is due this fall. City leaders expect to find out if they got it seven to nine weeks later.

Some city leaders think a fully developed Portage Prairie could mean thousands of new jobs, but others question that figure.

And there are already homes in that area, and some of them fear development would destroy the quiet, peaceful environment they now enjoy.

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