Alton, Mo. – Several counties, including Oregon County, are opting out of the proposed scenic byway. The Ozark County Times reported that residents feared government overreach prompted the opt-out. The county commissioners in Taney, Shannon, and Oregon counties have already opted out of the proposed byway.
Officials in Ozark and Howell counties plan to do the same, leaving the entire stretch of Highway 160 unaffected. However, these county commissioners have not officially voted on the issue, and the public has 45-60 days to comment.
Pros And Cons
While those who support the byway say it will bring increased revenue to the area and to small businesses, those who oppose the byway believe it may infringe upon their property rights.
Requirements
For scenic byways to pass through counties or municipalities, local approval is required. After the public hearing, Ozark County commissioners must agree to the proposal and submit a written statement of support to Scenic Missouri.
AltonMo.com has been following the progress of this proposed scenic bypass, including future meetings and the residents’ reactions.
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https://www.ktlo.com/2022/09/28/counties-opting-out-of-ozark-run-scenic-byway-may-fully-remove-highway-160-from-the-proposal/
