I am with the Virginia Chapter of the Sierra Club in Richmond, Virginia. I read your recent article on McDonnell’s transportation package, and think people are right to be skeptical.

This bill would take away money from education, health, and the environment and put it towards building more highways. Also, as was pointed out in your article, the bill would also take much of the decision-making power over local land use out of the hands of local governments and put it into the hands of the governor and a state-appointed Virginia Toll Authority- which would have the authority to exercise eminent domain. There is also nothing in the bill supporting green initiatives such as expanding public transportation options. The bill goes up for vote on Feb. 14. We urge your readers in Virginia to call their senators and ask them to vote against Senate Bill 639.

If readers would like further information, the bill can be read at lis.virginia,gov, as well as more on the Sierra Club’s issues with the bill at vasierraclub.org.

Caitlin Deighan

Richmond,  VA