I-67 Development Corporation met with senate and congressional leaders

Proposed route of I-67 through Dubois County to Washington and I-69.

Members of the I-67 Development Corporation traveled to Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, April 16 as part of a fly-in to update local representatives on the road project.

The group is pursuing the construction of an interstate from Bowling Green, KY to I-69 in southeast of Washington.

Members Hank Menke, Eric Schue, David Holt, Mayor Denny Spinner, Mayor Terry Seitz, Nick Brake, Amy Jackson, John DiDomizio , Tonya Brothers-Bridge , and Steven Reeves, Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Larry Bucshon, converged on the nation’s capital to meet with lawmakers and plead the case for the new road.

Members met earlier this year with INDOT officials and Lt. Governor Ellspermann to get feedback for next steps in the process.

The group had been raising money for and has completed a feasibility study for the roadway with Cambridge Systematics which showed a strong case for the road being built, citing safety concerns and economic development opportunities.

“Our group’s main goal in Washington, D.C. was to keep the momentum going.” said Hank Menke, President of the I-67 Development Corporation and also President of OFS Brands, Inc. “This road means so much to our region economically, and with the completion of I-69 on the not too distant horizon, this road will help to strengthen our connection to Indianapolis while saving us transportation dollars that can be put back to the bottom line for so many companies here in Southern Indiana and Western Kentucky.”

“I’m excited about the support we received in Washington for this project.” said Jasper Mayor Terry Seitz. “We have a lot of work to do, but it is great to get feedback from our Representatives in Washington.”

The group met with congressman Andre Carson (IN-07), Congressman Larry Bucshon (IN-08) and the Staff for the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Senator Dan Coats (R-IN), Congressman Todd Young (IN-09), Senator Joe Donnelly (D-IN), Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02).

Members of the group are holding a press conference on Monday to discuss the results of the trip to D.C.