Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam recently released a legislative proposal, based on a study by the Commonwealth Transportation Board, that would fund $2.2 billion in Interstate 81 Corridor critical improvements.
If the proposal were to become law, an Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Fund would be created, supported by tolls. Toll revenue would be used for improvements included in the Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Plan.
The transportation board adopted the plan in December.
Toll-rate limits would also be established. Residents would have the option of buying an annual pass for a fixed fee that would allow unlimited use of I-81.
“Interstate 81 is the economic engine of western Virginia, and it’s time we take decisive action to enhance the safety and improve the reliability of this key corridor,” Northam said. “I am committed to working with legislators on both sides of the aisle to establish a dedicated funding source that will support the critical improvements that Interstate 81 needs to move goods and people around the commonwealth.”
The bill will be introduced in the Senate by Sen. Bill Carrico (R- Bristol) and Mark Obenshain (R- Harrisonburg) and in the House by Delegates Terry Austin (R- Botetourt County) and Steve Landes (R- Weyers Cave).