Friday, January 15, 2010
McDonnell's transportation solution: Raise the speed limit
That's right, Governor-elect McDonnell wants to raise the speed limit on some interstate highways from 65 mph to 70 mph: "He [McDonnell] says he'll support legislation that could lead to higher speed limits on rural stretches of Interstates 64, 77 & 81." The graph on the right clearly shows the rapid decrease in fuel economy when driving 70 mph vs. 65 mph. According to fueleconomy.gov, "gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph."I think many people will agree with Mitzi: "'I think it would be stupid,'" says Mitzi Shewmake. 'It uses more gas when you go 70 and I'm much against it.'"
Despite his campaign pledge to increase funding for transportation, according to the Post
Gov.-elect Robert F. McDonnell (R) said Thursday that he will not propose a fix during this year's legislative session. "There are only so many things the General Assembly and I can do well in a short period of time," McDonnell said in an interview. "I don't think that there are enough hours in the day for the General Assembly to evaluate that plan and for me to build the consensus to get it passed."
During the race for Governor, he severely criticized his opponent, Creigh Deeds, who suggested establishing "a bipartisan commission to reach consensus on the issue." I guess raising the speed limit is the best he can do this year. Oh yes, he also proposes opening rest stops that were closed as a cost cutting measure.Labels: fuel economy, speed limit
Comments:
Post a Comment