Virginia Governor Focuses Policy Efforts On Roads

In his first speech to members of the State General Assembly, newly elected Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine "declared last night that Virginians are demanding immediate action to fix the state's transportation system long-term...he promised to propose, by the end of the week, 'a long-term transportation investment plan to reduce congestion, promote economic growth and keep Virginia moving forward.'"

"Our families in Northern Virginia are angry about the traffic gridlock that stops them from living a normal life," he said. "Folks in Hampton Roads have no way to know how long they will have to wait to cross the water. Parents in Southside Virginia are concerned about the dangers rural roads present to school children on school buses. The dangerous mix of cars and trucks on Interstate 81 makes many drivers feel unsafe."