Friday, July 9, 2010
Gov. McDonnell proposes using enhancement funds for welcome centers
At their November 19, 2009 meeting the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) voted to adopt a new policy regarding the use of Transportation Enhancement funds. Instead of using funds for many non-transportation related projects, they would "Apply any funding for new projects to those that promote core transportation functions."Now Governor McDonnell wants to use these funds for tourist and welcome centers: "Regional Tourism and Welcome Center Partnership - Use transportation enhancement grants to further tourism outreach through the establishment of partnerships between tourism entities along Virginia's interstates. These grants will be used to develop scenic/historic highway programs such as locating commercial regional tourist/welcome centers at interchanges."
This is in direct opposition to the new CTB policy. We sent the following email to Commissioner Whirley, vice-chair of the CTB:
Commissioner Whirley,
Today I read that Governor McDonnell is proposing to use Transportation Enhancement funds "...to further tourism outreach through the establishment of partnerships between tourism entities along Virginia's interstates. These grants will be used to develop scenic/historic highway programs such as locating commercial regional tourist/welcome centers at interchanges."
I know that the CTB recently approved a policy to "Apply any funding for new projects to those that promote core transportation functions." To my knowledge, tourist/welcome centers were not included in that definition. Since enhancement funds play a critical role in developing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, it would be unfortunate if these funds are diverted to funding other non-core transportation projects. I urge you to continue to fund much needed bicycle and facility projects that play an important role in solving our congestion and air quality problems and lead to healthier Virginians.
Sincerely,
Bruce Wright
Today I read that Governor McDonnell is proposing to use Transportation Enhancement funds "...to further tourism outreach through the establishment of partnerships between tourism entities along Virginia's interstates. These grants will be used to develop scenic/historic highway programs such as locating commercial regional tourist/welcome centers at interchanges."
I know that the CTB recently approved a policy to "Apply any funding for new projects to those that promote core transportation functions." To my knowledge, tourist/welcome centers were not included in that definition. Since enhancement funds play a critical role in developing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, it would be unfortunate if these funds are diverted to funding other non-core transportation projects. I urge you to continue to fund much needed bicycle and facility projects that play an important role in solving our congestion and air quality problems and lead to healthier Virginians.
Sincerely,
Bruce Wright
Labels: commonwealth transportation board, transportation enhancements
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