To Whom It May Concern, I am a citizen of Jackson County, and I am concerned about the impacts of the Oregon Department of Transportation rest area proposal (file#: LRP2007-00008). The proposed tourist welcome center and rest area will impact the areas east of Interstate 5, in Ashland Oregon. It is my understanding that the project will negatively and irrevocably affect the value of nearby properties, especially the land at 488 Crowson Rd. I am petitioning you to reconsider the effects of the project. Please take responsibility for the financial damages brought upon land owners, whose residential property may be rendered functionally obsolete and financially impaired by this action. Nearby properties will experience increased noise, loss of privacy and exposure to crime. Environmental effects should also be considered, including the impairment of storm water and well water quality, reduction of wildlife habitat value, and the loss of views and landscaping potential. These impacts will drastically reduce the property value to the current owners, their renters, and potential buyers. I request that alternatives be considered to mitigate for these negative impacts. I encourage you to provide equitable compensation to those land owners most impacted by the development. This mitigation may involve purchasing the land for your own use as well as offsetting the administrative costs and stress and strain caused by this action. Thank you in advance for reaffirming your community accountability. Sincerely, A Concerned Citizen