Comment on FR Doc # E8-23997

Dirk Kempthorne Secretary of the US Dept. of Interior Dept. of Interior 1849 C Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20240 Dear Secretary Kempthorne, I am writing to you concerning a proposed bypass in NW Florida. I am enclosing an article from our local newspaper dated 23 October 2008. There are several issues that are of concern to me, that I feel the need to bring to your attention. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Commission is trying to apply the brakes to a road that is much needed to our area. I question their motives and judgment about a salamander found in the area of the proposed road. They also requested a hearing, whose location was more than 50 miles away, for public opinion, that began at 7:30 the night of 22 October 2008. I had intended to participate in the hearing, but was unable to do so, because of work. I have logged more than 2 million miles of driving time in North West Florida, working with both the U.S. Postal service, as well as FedEx. There is little that I have not seen in those 2 million miles, and I like to think I know a little about safety. To put the safety of our community and kids above that of a salamander is incomprehensible to me. I have no dog in this hunt, except for the fact that I have 5 children here, and my first grandchild on the way. This road is a necessity to our area, not only for safety, but for our 4 military bases, as well as the continued growth and economic impact in our area. I hope and pray that you will demonstrate the necessary leadership towards the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, to show that we can develop this road, protect the salamander, coexist as one, and that it can be done. We should never put the safety of our kids at risk over such ignorance. Sincerely, Craig Barrett CEO NBI Properties Ft. Walton Beach, FL