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Land Use and Transportation

Large amounts of poorly planned development across Virginia have created a threat to our lifestyles, health, economy and the very beauty of the Commonwealth.  The highway lobby and the development industry seek to benefit by converting open space into sprawling car-dependent suburbs and exurbs away from urban and community centers.

There is a better way to build and in doing so, to produce healthy neighborhoods, better transportation choices and cleaner air, water and open space.

Many of the solutions are long-term, involving better land use and transportation planning.  We need well-designed density in urban areas served by public transportation with ample pedestrian and bicycle connections.  We need to carefully reconsider how we spend our transportation dollars. We need protection for our farms and sensitive natural areas and a robust public involvement process to make all this happen.

Actions can be addressed at the local and state government level and with the private sector.  Smart growth and transportation issues are among the top priorities of the Virginia Chapter.

Actions:

• Let us know that you would like to join our campaign to build a better future.
• Write a letter to your local newspaper about your concern for a better built environment

Groups Challenge VDOT's Beltway HOT Process (press release) September 9, 2007

Letter to Governor Tim Kaine Re: PPTA and I-495, Capital Beltway HOT Lanes, June 25, 2007

Letter to Barbara W. Reese, Deputy Secretary of Transportation, regarding financial evaluation of proposed HOT lanes, October 5, 2007