Document R0bz8GM2aZYka3p4annjJrgB

105 S. Long Street Post Office Box 339 East Spencer, North Carolina 28039 Telephone: (704) 636-7111 Fax: (704) 639-7734 Website: www.eastspencer.gov "HOME OF HERITAGE & PROMISE" Alderman Albert Smith 105 S. Long St. East Spencer, NC 28039 asmith@eastspencer.gov (704) 636-7111 2/20/2025 The Honorable Congressman Addison McDowell 1032 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 Dear Congressman McDowell, As a resident and advocate for the Town of East Spencer, i want to express my sincere gratitude for your tireless advocacy on behalf of our community, particularly regarding the effort to secure an off-ramp on 1-85. Your leadership and commitment to improving the future of our town are deeply appreciated. East Spencer has long struggled with limited economic and residential growth, largely due to our lack of adequate access to key transportation routes. The challenges we face are compounded by the tragic fire that destroyed Dunbar High School, an institution that had been central to our community. When potential investors showed interest in the property, they expressed concern about the lack of direct access to the site. This lack of an off-ramp on 1-85 has undoubtedly hindered our ability to attract the investment and development necessary for revitalizing our town. The addition of an off-ramp would provide a critical lifeline for East Spencer, improving both safety and traffic flow while offering easier access for businesses, residents, and visitors. It would open up new opportunities for economic development, making our town more attractive to investors and ultimately improving the quality of life for our residents. This project is essential not only for spurring growth but also for ensuring that we can move forward and rebuild from the challenges of the past. Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and advocacy on behalf of East Spencer. Your work in championing this effort will have a lasting and positive impact, and we are incredibly grateful for your dedication to our community. Sincerely, Smith Alderman Town of East Spencer OST-2025-1200 Page 01315 Sierra Club v. Dept. of Transp. - 3:25-cv-06221 SC_EVERSPLIT0024502