HOW I SEE IT: We need revenue-sharing for roads

I am writing concerning a matter of great importance to not only the residents of Culpeper County, but the residents of the commonwealth as a whole.

Culpeper County has always considered itself a partner with VDOT in the management of the county’s transportation network. To that end, Culpeper County has and continues to participate in the revenue-sharing program administered by the Virginia Department of Transportation. The revenue-sharing program has allowed Culpeper County, in partnership with VDOT, the town of Culpeper, local businesses and other private entities, to construct several projects enhancing the county’s transportation network.

Culpeper County is currently utilizing the revenue-sharing program to help finance a major road project, the western outer loop, which will serve as both a critical link in the county’s outer loop road system and as an alternate route for drivers to avoid traveling through downtown Culpeper, thereby reducing traffic congestion.

Reduced tax revenues at the state level have affected Culpeper County dramatically with regard to transportation issues. All funding, existing and future, has been cut essentially 100 percent for primary road projects in Culpeper County. In addition, VDOT facilities are being closed, denying valuable and timely assistance and services to Culpeper County residents on any number of important transportation issues.

Now, one of the last funding mechanisms open to Culpeper County to fund both major and minor road projects as a partner with VDOT is being considered for cuts in future budget allocations.

While the state recognizes the ever increasing demand on our transportation system by providing new programs to help manage this growth (527 TIA reviews, updated access management regulations and updated secondary street acceptance regulations), it appears the state is discounting the fact that many rural localities also have transportation issues that can only be addressed through new road construction.

It is our contention that to end the revenue-sharing program — a program that fosters cooperation, forges strong partnerships and requires localities to, at a minimum, match funds provided by the state — would not only be unwise, but also unfair to localities willing to spend local revenue on road construction projects benefitting the traveling public.

Culpeper County understands that relying on VDOT to provide 100 percent of the funding for new road construction is no longer feasible, which is why we believe that a funding program requiring a local match, such as revenue sharing, should be continued.

By using this funding program, Culpeper County will be able to enhance the partnership forged with VDOT while continuing to expand and enhance our public transportation network.