More
Join

Ending gridlock, seeking transportation funds for our area

By Senator Scott Surovell
As traffic congestion continues to plague us, I am intensifying my fight for more transportation resources in our area. Last week, I testified before the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) and made the case for more funds for several critically needed transportation projects: the I-95/Occoquan bottleneck, U.S. 1 widening and bus rapid transit, U.S. 1 in Dumfries and several other projects.
A few years ago, we began scoring projects based on objective criteria including congestion relief, economic development, environmental benefits and safety improvements. Not surprisingly, U.S. 1 scored relatively high using these new metrics as compared to projects around the rest of Northern Virginia, a result that underscores my long-term point that U.S. 1 has been long ignored over the
last few decades.In 2013, we also created a regional transportation funding pool with regionally-administered taxes disbursed by the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority (NVTA).
About two months ago, the NVTA agreed to invest over $450 million in widening U.S. 1 in Hybla Valley, U.S. 1 bus rapid transit, reconstructing the CSX Bridge on U.S. 1 just north of I-95 and acquiring right-of-way on U.S. 1 through the town of Dumfries. The CTB was considering eight projects in the 36th Senate District. I pointed out that the I-95/Occoquan Bottleneck is chronically jammed. This is my constituents’ number one traffic complaint.
Prince William County has asked the CTB to allocate $25 million to add a lane between VA-123 and the Prince William County Parkway in both directions. Achieving this will require a payment to Transurban to compensate it for lost tolls. I have been pressing Governor Ralph Northam to negotiate this quickly and I am hopeful we might have progress soon.
I also supported Fairfax County’s request for an additional $139 million to fund U.S. 1 widening and U.S. 1 bus rapid transit from Huntington Metro to the Woodbridge VRE Station. This project has become more expensive and the more money the state invests, the more likely the federal government will award a significant transit grant to fund the balance of the project. These funds, coupled with the $377 million already allocated by the NVTA, are real investments in U.S. 1. This is also one of the largest transit projects pending in the entire state.
I argued for investing $77 million in building a new interchange at U.S. 1 and VA-123 just south of the Occoquan River. The Virginia Railway Express Station there will bring significant growth to that area. This project will help people cross U.S. 1 more safely, keep traffic moving, support predicted growth and facilitate commuting.
I requested $77 million to support the $45 million allocated by the NVTA to complete rebuilding U.S. 1 through Dumfries. Each time I-95 is gridlocked, Dumfries gets pummeled. The existing configuration of U.S. 1 has limited economic development in the town and this project will transform the town with new sidewalks and multi-use paths.
Lastly, I supported two smaller Prince William County projects — $8 million to improve the intersection of Old Bridge Road and Occoquan Road and $32 million to complete Summit School Road’s connection with Telegraph Road near the Horner Road commuter lot in Woodbridge. Interconnectivity is critical in this area as it continues to develop because of its proximity to I-95 and the Potomac Mills Shopping Mall.
Overall, we have requested an additional $350 million to couple with the $434 million allocated by the NVTA for the U.S. 1/I-95 Corridor. The new transportation taxes we enacted in 2013 are finally starting to pay dividends. I will continue my work to see that transportation officials fund our requests.
It is an honor to serve as your state senator. Email me at [email protected] if you have any feedback.

Author

Recent Stories

Woman, 20, Shot and Killed in Dale City

On November 27 at 8:50PM, officers responded to 13500 block of Delaney Road in [Dale City] to investigate a domestic dispute.

Read more →

Raccoon on a Mission to Reduce Litter

We all want to reside in a community that is fun, safe, and, at it’s core – clean. However, it’s easier said than done. Maintaining an inviting, enjoyable space has it’s challenges, from monetary expenses to valuable time and effort.

Read more →

Pence Group Finalizing Plans for The Garrison at Stafford

The Pence Group is getting closer to breaking ground on its long-awaited 45-acre mixed-use development on Garrisonville Road in North Stafford.

Read more →

I-66 Express Donates $10K to NVFS Hunger Center

I-66 Express donates $10K to NVFS Hunger Center, aiding 400+ families this holiday season.

Read more →

Beaujolais & Beyond 2024

By: French American Chamber Commerce

Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.

What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?

This is the Wine Event Of The Year!

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Are you looking for therapist? Sign up for a free 15- consultation

By: Peaceful Mind Solutions

Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and we’re here to help.

We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.

Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Sing a Song of Christmas!!!

–

Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise

More Stories
×

Subscribe to our mailing list