Press Release
BOLLING CALLS ON KAINE TO REVIST TYSONS CORNER TUNNEL
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
RICHMOND - Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling today encouraged Governor Tim Kaine to revisit the Commonwealth''s decision on how to construct a connector rail system through Tysons Corner to Dulles International Airport. Kaine has previously endorsed completing the project with an above ground rail system, while many local business leaders have preferred a below ground tunnel option.
In a letter to Governor Kaine the Lieutenant Governor encouraged the state to "reconsider the Commonwealth''s prior endorsement of the above ground rail system and evaluate anew the costs and benefits of the tunnel option." Bolling added, "This is a project of great importance to the Northern Virginia region, and we must make certain that we make the right decision on how to proceed with this project."
In his letter Bolling spelled out the case for reconsidering the state''s commitment to the above ground rail system. He noted that federal highway officials have recently indicated that the state has until mid 2008 to submit final plans for the project. He also talked about the obvious advantages of a tunnel approach, including the lessened impact it would have on traffic and economic growth in the area during the period of construction.
Bolling also encouraged Kaine to take another look at the cost comparisons between the two projects. The Lieutenant Governor suggested that the cost of completing the project via an above ground rail system may be more than originally anticipated, while the costs of the tunnel alternative may be less.
Bolling noted that the proposed project is of critical importance to Tysons Corner and the entirety of Northern Virginia. "This project is of tremendous importance to the future quality of life and economic viability of Tyson''s Corner," he said. "Given the impact that this project will have on the Tyson''''''''s Corner area, both now and in the future, it is critical for us to make the correct decision on how to proceed with this project."
A copy of the Lieutenant Governor''s letter is attached.
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For additional information contact Randy Marcus at 804-814-7117 (cell) or randy.marcus@ltgov.virginia.gov.
