Although the new bridge to be built over the Nottoway River in Courtland seems to us a sure thing so far, there’s still an opportunity for you to make your objections or questions known. The Army Corps of Engineers is welcoming comments to be sent in written form by close of day on Monday, Aug. 25. Wisely, the Corps is making sure all the i’s are dotted and the t’s are crossed before permits are released to Waterfront Marine, which would build the new bridge.

And judging from past and present remarks on this newspaper’s website about the matter, several readers still are concerned how the closure will affect them. For some, it’s a matter of adding extra time to drive. To others, their businesses could be impacted if people aren’t willing to drive even a detour of 7-miles, give or take a few more.

Whether or not anybody’s letters will actually change deciding minds is unknowable. But that doesn’t excuse the public from not trying. All too often we read and hear from people who won’t even make the effort. Apathy and despair didn’t build this democratic country, but personal investment and hope did.

If you still have something to say, write it down and send the letter to the Norfolk District, Corps of Engineers (ATTN: CENAO-WR-R), 803 Front St., Norfolk, VA 23510-1096. If you have any questions about this project or the permit process, contact stephen Decker at Stephen.j.decker@usace.army.mil or 757-201-7832.