To the editor:

Our city is headed in a positive direction. The favorable vote Aug. 8 was a vote of confidence in our community and a commitment to its future.

Thanks to the Southeast Missourian for a fair assessment of the transportation needs. Your positive position and editorial endorsements were key to the successful results of the election.

Thanks to the citizen groups whose grass-roots effort clarified the citizens' wants, needs and priorities. Vision 2000, city staff, Cape Girardeau Chamber of Commerce, planning and zoning commission, Community Caring Council and the Transportation Trust Committee responded to citizen concerns and were instrumental in developing the plan.

Thanks to the citizens for voicing their opinions and taking action. The city council heard their voices and responded.

The real winners on Tuesday were our citizens, our neighbors, our businesses and those who depend upon Cape Girardeau for their livelihood.

Thanks to you all.

ALBERT M. SPRADLING III, Mayor

Cape Girardeau