Opposition to a plan to increase fees on a Virginia tollroad may result in a pullout by private interests, leaving the state with the burden of paying for its transportation infrastructure -- a task that may be impossible, according to this article.
"Whether motivated by campaign season or a sincere desire to 'protect' the public interest, Congressman Frank Wolf's increasingly vocal opposition to the recent toll increase on the Dulles Greenway is unfortunately misguided. Worse, it could harm the Commonwealth's ability to provide the transportation infrastructure needed to reduce congestion and improve mobility for years to come."
"In reaction to the toll increases, Congressman Wolf has convinced Attorney General Robert McDonnell to review the Greenway operator's recently approved toll rate increase, and has called for the General Assembly to undo the law that created the Greenway in the first place."
"More than 55,000 commuters daily choose to avoid the congested parallel Route 7 and pay $3.00 to use the Greenway. The Greenway is a form of congestion insurance, giving commuters an option if they need to get somewhere fast. It's reasonable to expect that users will continue to value their time and will pay a little extra for the convenience and time savings associated with using the Greenway. Remember, this is a voluntary decision on the part of the commuters - to pay for avoiding congestion."
FULL STORY: Wolf in Sheep's Clothing

Florida Considers Legalizing ADUs
Current state law allows — but doesn’t require — cities to permit accessory dwelling units in single-family residential neighborhoods.

HUD Announces Plan to Build Housing on Public Lands
The agency will identify federally owned parcels appropriate for housing development and streamline the regulatory process to lease or transfer land to housing authorities and nonprofit developers.

Has President Trump Met His Match?
Doug Ford, the no-nonsense premier of Canada's most populous province, Ontario, is taking on Trump where it hurts — making American energy more expensive.

San Francisco Announces Plan to Overhaul Homelessness Strategy
Mayor Lurie’s three-phase plan promises 1,500 new shelter beds and a restructuring of outreach teams and supportive service programs.

$5 Billion Rental Assistance Fund Set to Run Out of Cash
“No additional funding from HUD will be forthcoming,” HUD announces.

Denver Could Eliminate Parking Requirements
The city could remove parking mandates citywide to reduce the cost of housing construction and ease permitting for new projects.
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