Newton-Sparta Road plan is total overkill

To the Editor: The County Engineers’ plan to change Newton-Sparta Road into a four-lane highway with a center barrier and two jug-handles is a total overkill. The plan is to begin in Newton through Andover with two lanes, then expand to a four-lane highway in Sparta at Rev. Brown School to Stop and Shop. At this point it reverts back to two lanes before the Route 517 bypass. How does this reduce traffic? Ambulanes and fire trucks will be slowed by having to use the jug-handles. Just think of the school bus situation. I can understand having turning lanes and some traffic lights, as the engineers are planning for Newton and Andover. However, their plan for Sparta is unacceptable. Another issue is our beautiful landscape. Help us to keep Newton-Sparta Road from looking like Route 10. Please attend the Planning Board meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17, in the Sparta Town Hall. We need your help. Jennie Connors Sparta