Deforest City Blues: Have we backed the wrong horse again?

From cigars, to cars, to cargo? Can we get it right?

Years ago London was known for its fine cigars. Puff.

The industry went up in smoke. Other locales could do it better.

Then we backed car manufacturing. And after years of faithful partnerships the cars drove south.


Now we’re going to sink millions into turning our airport into a cargo hub. Will the project have wings?

I express doubts in an earlier post.

In last week’s column (and this Wednesday’s) I point out a few weaknesses to the scheme.

And now I read that not only do airports ‘face a slow recovery after the recession caused a significant erosion of passenger traffic’ but ‘the recession has also produced challenges for air carriers (individual companies), especially Air canada, which accounts for more than half of traffic at Canada’s largest airports.’ (Canadian Press, Oct.16)

Those who know the connection between passengers and freight will know our city has not bet on the winning horse again.

Add to this the fact a growing number of people now link carbon production to climate change and want to see action taken.

An air cargo industry (very carbon intensive) may put Deforest City into the position of ‘flogging a dead horse.’

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Could we breath life into Ford Talbotville by producing an awe-inspiring small car?

Would urban commuters drive an enclosed 3-wheel scooter with a grocery compartment?

How’s 100 mpg grab you?

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