STATEMENT OF CONGRESSMAN JOHN J. DUNCAN, Jr.

March 28, 2007

"I almost never oppose a project in another member's district unless it is something very wasteful or harmful to the taxpayer.

It bothers me to see the federal government break a promise that was made many years ago to a group of what were mostly very poor people.

If the federal government was efficient and honorable, which it seldom is, the Northshore Road would have been built shortly after World War II at very low cost and with very little controversy.

Now the road has become far too expensive and far too controversial.  In fact, I believe a big majority of those who care about this issue are opposed to the road.

Congressman Heath Shuler is a longtime friend and someone for whom I have the greatest respect.  The road project lies within his State and his Congressional District.  He is opposed to the road and not building it will save the taxpayers a great amount of money.  That settles the issue for me.

I also have the greatest admiration and respect for another longtime friend, my own Senator Alexander.  He feels very strongly that the road should not be built, and he knows a lot more about this part of the Smokies than I do.

I have not signed the joint letter only because I wanted to share these additional comments."