Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Build Parallel Toll Tunnels Next to the Current Tunnels

Re: April 3rd, front page Virginian Pilot

You don't need a multimillion dollar study to determine Hampton Roads desperately needs another crossing at the HRBT and downtown Norfolk. Float a bond, form a public-private partnership or do both and toll the new tunnels via E-ZPass until they are paid for.

If the Governor wants to turn Virginia's section of I-95 into a turnpike that's one thing, but putting tolls on tunnels and bridges that have long been paid for is poor policy, bad for business and is likely against state law.

Construction of parallel toll tunnels next to the current free tunnels seems like an obvious solution, but I haven't heard anyone even mention this.