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Hyundai plant's a long shot I have questions regarding the possible location of a Hyundai plant in the White City area. If this does happen, what about maintaining the quality of the Rogue River, the environment and the air? Also, has any thought been given to an already clogged Highway 62 and the effect this plant would have on that? There was tremendous criticism in Eugene before Hyundai built there, and that probably should be looked into before we give up precious space in Southern Oregon. -- Ellen N., Medford Before you get too worked up, Ellen, remember the Hyundai plant coming to Southern Oregon remains somewhat of a long shot. The company hasn't decided whether it's going to build in Oregon (possibly even Eugene) or overseas. Still, you raise some important issues. Gordon Safley, executive director of Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development Inc., says traffic and air quality and other environmental issues should be looked into. However, he says the proposed plant would have little effect on the river. The company has said that it may need to build its own power generation plant on the site, which would produce air pollution. Safley says economic development officials are trying to convince the company that such a facility might not be needed. If it is, state officials would have to issue a permit to address air quality concerns. Wetlands are the leading environment concern in Eugene. However, Safley says the proposed White City site has no wetlands issues. As for traffic on Highway 62, there's little question that a plant with 600 to 800 employees would add congestion. "It's an issue for anything that locates in White City," Safley says. Safley says a planned Highway 140 bypass is expected to ease congestion, as is the extension of McAndrews Road. He says the addition of such a large employer would likely force the issue, making it essential for some long-term solution to be reached. ("Since You Asked'' is a daily feature in the Mail Tribune that answers questions from readers on virtually any topic of general interest. To submit a question, e-mail us at [email protected] Please include your name, address and phone number for verification. If you have specific questions about our Web site or other questions about the Mail Tribune, please send them to [email protected] ) Today's Edition : News | Sports | Business | Weather | Tempo | Classifieds Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 2000, Medford, Oregon USA