Patrick McIlheran, the comically inept conservative columnist for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, is exultant over the death of the train connection to Madison. Which makes sense, given Madison has been recognized as a brainy place, and McIlheran has a well-documented disdain for brainy people.
McIlheran wraps his opposition in a mantle of fiscal rectitude, which is, of course, laughable given he has vigorously supported the US fighting two wars without paying for them. And he would probably favor a war with Iran, just to make it three.
Because if he were a conservative on things transport related, you think he would have supported a position on the Hoan Bridge that would have been respectful of the public coffers. Particularly given that most Wisconsinites don't use that particular stretch of road. Shoot, most Milwaukeeans don't.
Well, you'd be wrong. When the idea of tearing down the Hoan Bridge and replacing it with a smaller bridge -- which would open the surrounding area to development worth billions -- McIlheran opposed it. Why? It would add a few minutes on to the commute of some people coming in to work from the south suburbs! Even though the cost of a smaller bridge ($220 million) would cost less than redecking the current one ($240 million) and much less than the additional cost to be incurred when the whole thing needs to be redone in 2050 (estimated at $800 million, but surely more). McIlheran's reaction to that? "The real money on the Hoan isn't until the 2050 anyway."
Paying for a train that will connect Milwaukee and Madison -- robbery! Spending more than $1 billion to save commuters a few minutes -- and forgoing lakefront development -- when less expensive options are available? Right on! Truly, a conservative position.
Umm, even the Hoan gets more riders than that damn train would have.
Come on. Argue rationally, or quit.
Posted by: LiberalsAreStupid | December 09, 2010 at 11:26 PM