Opportunity: Transportation

As Governor, Bob McDonnell has reduced state spending to 2006/7 levels cutting $6 billion, rejected a nearly $2 billion tax increase, put policies in place to help Virginians attract and create the fourth most net new jobs in the country, made the largest investment in transportation in a generation, and made college more accessible and affordable for Virginia students.

That’s the McDonnell record—a record of results.

The Governor’s transportation package, a breakthrough achievement that will have an impact in every region of the state, demonstrates this record in action.

The Governor’s legislation creates the framework to put $4 billion into roads, bridges and rail projects across the Commonwealth over the next three years - without new taxes. The greatest transportation investment since 1986.

And here’s what papers across the state are saying about it:

The Washington Post writes:

“His transportation proposal represents the largest infusion of funds into the state’s cash-strapped highway coffers in more than two decades - and will help fund 900 projects.”

Stateline writes:

“...in a dismal budget year for states, McDonnell’s package represents one of the most ambitious transportation plans likely to emerge anywhere.”

The Virginian-Pilot writes:

“The plan is expected to inject $4 billion into state transportation projects over three years. Some 900 projects have been identified to receive the funds, including light rail in Hampton Roads, a new tube for the Midtown Tunnel, and widening Dominion Boulevard in Chesapeake and Lynnhaven Parkway in Virginia Beach.”

The News & Advance writes:

“Breaking the transportation logjam is a major achievement for McDonnell”

The Danville Register & Bee writes:

“Local business leaders welcome the infrastructure improvements as laid out in the governor’s transportation plan.”

The Roanoke Times writes:

“Now that Virginia is likely going forward with plans to expand its highway system through billions of dollars of new construction, getting around Southwest Virginia is looking to get easier.”

The Washington Examiner writes:

“... It would grant McDonnell, who identified transportation as one of his top priorities for the 2011 session, a major legislative victory early on in his second year in office.”

You can read more about Governor McDonnell’s transportation package, and all of his 2011 legislative achievements, by clicking on the link below:

Cutting spending. Getting the economy back on track. Bringing jobs and opportunity to Virginia. That’s the McDonnell record. It’s a record we hope you will share with your friends and family.

Thank you very much for your continued thoughts, prayers and support.

D.J. Eckert