The public is invited to two local meetings regarding the Richmond to Hampton Roads high speed rail project. The Hampton Roads Transportation Planning Organization (HRTPO) endorsed what is known as enhanced alternative #1. From an email I received:
The Regional Position: Endorse the extension of high-speed rail service from Washington, D.C. to Richmond/Petersburg and the Hampton Roads region, designating the Norfolk Southern/Route 460 corridor as the Regional High-Speed Rail corridor (110mph and 90 percent reliability) designated ultimately at speeds of more than 110 mph. And, enhance the intercity passenger rail service (89mph and 90 percent reliability) along the CSX/I-64 corridor. The HRTPO position is best reflected in a strengthened alternative #1, which we strongly endorse.
I understand that this study is the first step in the federal process. The draft can be viewed here.
The two public hearings to be held in Hampton Roads are as follows:
- Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2010, 5:30-8 p.m., at City Center Conference Facilities, James and Warwick Rooms, 700 Town Center Drive, Newport News, VA, and
- Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010, 5:30-8 p.m., at Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center, 1 Waterside Drive, Norfolk, VA
Attendees are encouraged to sign up to provide verbal comments at the public hearing, provide verbal comments privately to the court reporter at the public hearing and/or provide written comments at the public hearing.
If you cannot make the public hearing, you still have options to have your voice heard on this important topic. You can provide written comments using the comment form here or you can mail your comments to Public Information Office, DRPT, 600 E. Main St, Suite 2102, Richmond, VA 23219. The public comment period ends on February 11, 2010.
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 