By Bill Zeeble, KERA reporter
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-647071.mp3
Dallas, TX – Bill Zeeble, KERA reporter: From early vote results right through to the final numbers, the side favoring the toll road inside the levee always led. Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert championed the effort to keep toll road plans intact. In his victory speech delivered before 10 pm, he admitted that months ago, the other side led in the polls by 20 points.
Dallas Mayor Tom Leppert: This is an historic election. It is one where I believe we've got the opportunity to realize our dream. It's a vision of the Trinity but also a united Dallas.
Zeeble: Leppert said the Trinity plan now moves forward, generating jobs, relieving traffic congestion and air pollution, and resulting in a park and lakes everyone can use.
Leppert: We'll look back at what's historically been a divide in our city and we'll see it's brought out city together. It's been a magnet and when all is said and done, that's what the Trinity Project is going to offer this city. And that'll change the face of Dallas.
Zeeble: Former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk - who successfully led the first effort nearly a decade ago for the Trinity River bond package, hoped THIS vote would finally settle things.
Ron Kirk, former Dallas Mayor: I understand the passion of those on the other side, but I hope they accept the judgment & wisdom of the people of Dallas and let us go forward and make this plan a reality.
Zeeble: Mayor Leppert said officials now have an obligation to move forward so the Trinity plan makes Dallas proud. Bill Zeeble KERA News.
Bzeeble@Kera.Org