Anti-freeway group forms

The Arizona Republic

Dec. 3, 2005 12:00 AM

A group of citizens worried about the proposed South Mountain Freeway's effect on Kyrene de los Lagos Elementary students has formed to opposed a planned route.

Protecting Arizona's Resources and Children will meet Sunday to organize volunteers, founder Melanie Pai said.

The group, which now numbers 20-30 members, formed in the wake of a public meeting hosted by the Arizona Department of Transportation last month. Its first goal is to send petitions to Gov. Janet Napolitano and Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon requesting that money be set aside to study the freeway's effect on children's health.

"We're just trying to say something that the politicians will listen to," Pai said.

The group meets 4 p.m. Sunday at Lakewood Community Park near South 36th Street and East Ashurst Drive. For information, contact Pai at (480) 678-0407 or melaniepai@yahoo.com.

- Corinne Purtill