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Data Manipulation Must Not Be Tolerated
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Data Manipulation Must Not Be Tolerated

Charlotte Observer Editorial regarding data manipulation for studies of Monroe Connector-Bypass, and potential problems with Gaston Garden Parkway

Data Manipulation Must Not Be Tolerated

Kevin Siers Cartoon- NC Turnpike Authority Connector

Liar, liar, pants on fire?

That childhood rhyme might sound like a flip assessment of the N.C. Turnpike Authority's apparent deception to federal officials about the impact of a proposed $800 million toll road in Union County on the environment. But based on documents, the liar part might be about right. We'll be kind and say misleading. And as for the pants on fire, N.C. officials should put someone or some ones on the hot seat for what appears to be manipulation of data to make it easier for the highway to get the necessary approvals for construction.

Here's the problem, as Observer reporter Steve Harrison wrote in a front page story Wednesday: Before highways are built, the federal government requires environmental impact projections. Those are compared to a forecast of what would happen if the road were not built.

But the turnpike authority didn't do a forecast assuming the road wasn't built. It used only data assuming the Monroe Connector/Bypass highway was already in place, according to the Southern Environmental Law Center, which has filed a lawsuit to stop construction.


Read more: http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/03/24/2166789/data-manipulation-must-not-be.html

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