| "The Department of Transportation shall evaluate the effectiveness and impact of all proposed new highways, new lanes added to existing highways, and new interchanges, wherever such proposed projects are estimated to cost $20 million or more by modeling and forecasting the traffic and land-use impacts of such projects. Traffic impacts to be studied shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the additional number of vehicle trips and vehicle miles driven that the new facility will generate, inducing drivers to use the new facility instead of alternative transportation modes or alternative routes, or by changing development patterns. Land-use impacts shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the new facility's impact on the pace and location of new development and population distribution, which can result in the need for additional school, sewer, and transportation infrastructure. The Department shall conduct the evaluations required by this section during the preliminary engineering phase of a project, and shall conduct them in conjunction with other review processes applicable to all proposed projects whenever possible. The Department shall report the results of its modeling and forecasts under this section to the Commonwealth Transportation Board and to the governing body of all affected counties, cities, and towns." |
Speaking in opposition, State Senatoe Malfourd W. Trumbo said "There's a good chance if this passes VDOT then starts driving land-use." That's exactly the concern, according to the smart growth activists. Improving the infrastructure for cars will induce more drivers to use their cars and reduce demand for mass transit. New roads such as the proposed Western Transportation Corridor may do little to reduce existing congestion. Instead, they spread congestion further into the rural regions, spurring sprawl.
Houck was a Democrat, Trumbo was a Republican. The bill was rejected on a party-line vote, 9 Republicans opposed and 6 Democrats in favor. Several Republicans, such as State Senator Bill Mims, represent districts impacted by sprawl. Sprawl activists unable to address the issue at a stateway level will naturally focus on local issues, such as the Western Transportation Corridor. Look for letters such as: