Regarding the June 7 editorial “Here are the facts on O’Hare,” I have several concerns.
First, I would question the safety of any plan that makes no allowances for errors in judgment or communication. To say that the distance between runways is not an issue as the planes would not be taking off and landing simultaneously is to imply that this situation could never occur. Having read of numerous near misses and the high stress and increasing workload of the air controllers, however, I believe we need to have some sense of reality.
It’s true that in a perfect world, these factors would not be an issue. But I feel it is the responsibility of those who are designing these plans to ensure the safety of the public in the event that circumstances are less than perfect.
I would also take exception to the statement that the expansion would not negatively affect Bensenville and the surrounding communities. If you were to travel to Bensenville, you would see that, according to the Tribune’s map of the proposed runways, the western border would be only a few blocks from Bensenville’s downtown business district. The impact of this proposal would be devastating to the community.
Which brings me to my next point. The politicians who are arguing in favor of expanding O’Hare International Airport have appeared to give little thought to the people whose lives will be affected the most by this project.
Bensenville is not a place of wealthy professionals with flashy homes and expensive accessories. The people are simple, basic, hardworking individuals who have put tremendous effort into making their town a place to be proud of–from the renovations made in the downtown area, to the new sport center ice arena, as well as the beautiful water park. They have a history and livelihoods invested in that town and a lifestyle they may not find anywhere else.
The only voice that has spoken on behalf of these wonderful people is Sen. Peter Fitzgerald (R-Ill.). I applaud his courage for standing by his principles without the fanfare or support of the political machine. He is fighting this uphill battle with little to gain and much to lose in the political arena. He is an inspiration in the world of politics and he serves his people with honor.
Businesses and travelers will continue to use O’Hare whether or not expansion takes place. And as the airlines are still struggling to recoup losses resulting from Sept. 11, I don’t see that this is a particularly sound financial decision. I believe that this project is more about egos and political legacies than it is about the welfare of the general public. I feel the actions of both Fitzgerald and Rep. Henry Hyde (R-Ill.) on this issue speak volumes about their character and integrity as congressmen–as do the actions of Mayor Richard Daley and Gov. George Ryan, only in a different light.
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