Va.’s transportation spending increase now official

    April 21, 2011
    Unlike most states, Virginia is taking the plunge following a deep recession. Gov. Bob McDonnell announced on April 20 that highway and transit spending will increase by $2.6 billion over the next six years. The funding boost follows a series of cuts for the state that totaled $4 billion, and it is the largest in over a decade.

    To help pay for the additional investment, McDonnell plans on borrowing more and encouraging public-private partnerships.

    “It’s money right away,” he said. “It’s not a trickle of tax money.”

    Unlike most states, Virginia is taking the plunge following a deep recession. Gov. Bob McDonnell announced on April 20 that highway and transit spending will increase by $2.6 billion over the next six years. The funding boost follows a series of cuts for the state that totaled $4 billion, and it is the largest in over a decade.

    To help pay for the additional investment, McDonnell plans on borrowing more and encouraging public-private partnerships.

    “It’s money right away,” he said. “It’s not a trickle of tax money.”

    The move, which now sets Virginia’s six-year transportation plan at $11.2 billion, is expected to produce 100,000 jobs and generate over $13 billion in economic activity. McDonnell proposes to spend a little over $8 billion for highway improvements—a 42% increase—with the remaining going to rail and public-transit projects. A total of 900 projects are expected to be included in the plan.

    Continue Reading

    Sponsored Recommendations

    See how fiberglass conduit stacks up to the competition in crucial areas like weight, corrosion resistance and installation cost.
    Bridge construction projects are loaded with details and electrical conduit is a key component. Lightweight Champion Fiberglass offers lower materials and installation costs. ...
    Investigators look to see if tragedy could have been prevented
    Champion Fiberglass has provided a durable, cost-effective, corrosion-resistant, American-made electrical conduit solution for more than 30 years. Learn how to beat inflation ...