Letter: Dubois County is a treasure worth protecting

I have lived in Jasper for the past eight years. Eight years living in one of the most beautiful parts of Indiana, and having the pleasure of meeting and becoming friends with many kind and generous people throughout Dubois County. There is something truly special about this place. From the rolling hills of Southern Indiana to the deep-rooted sense of community that defines our towns, this place is more than where we live—it’s part of who we are.

Jasper, Huntingburg, Ferdinand, and our smaller communities have all worked hard to become places where families can thrive. We enjoy some of the lowest crime rates in the state and affordable utility costs that help working families make ends meet. Our surroundings offer natural beauty that’s second to none, including the breathtaking Hoosier National Forest, and landmarks like the historic St. Joseph Catholic Church, which remind us of our heritage and faith.

In Jasper, our public parks are a cornerstone of daily life. The River Walk, the Parklands, and our public golf course with a full driving range provide both recreation and relaxation. Our neighborhood parks and soccer fields are always alive with activity, laughter, and community. This is what makes Jasper—and Dubois County—a wonderful place to raise a family.

Just as important are our public schools, which consistently rank among the best in the state. This success is no accident—it’s thanks to our excellent teachers, administrators, and staff who work tirelessly to support every student. Our schools reflect the strength of our diversity and our shared commitment to opportunity and achievement.

Our towns have also invested wisely in local businesses. Jasper, Huntingburg, and Ferdinand have put in the time, effort, and funding to revitalize their downtowns. Unique shops, inviting storefronts, and delicious restaurants attract visitors from surrounding counties, bringing both pride and prosperity to our area.

But all of this—our quality of life, our environment, our future—is now under threat from the proposed Mid-States Corridor.

This unnecessary new highway would carve through farms, destroy homes, and alter the landscape that defines Dubois County. It’s being pushed by those whose eyes are on profits, not people. Their vision of “connectivity” comes at too great a cost—one that we, the residents of Dubois County, will be forced to bear.

We must ask ourselves: Do we want to trade irreplaceable farmland, generational homes, and natural beauty for gas stations, fast-food chains, and another Dollar Store?

The people who live here didn’t ask for this road. In fact, many of us moved here—or moved back—because of the peace, the safety, and the strong community we have. Quality of life is what keeps us here. It’s what binds us together. And it’s what we must fight to protect.

Jasper, Huntingburg, Ferdinand, and all our neighboring towns should not be sacrificed for a project that doesn’t serve the people—it serves investors and the wealthy business owners. Let’s stand together and say loud and clear: No Mid-States Corridor.

Teresa Kendall
Jasper