I-95 and I-395 HOV/BUS/HOT Hearings

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) recently conducted three Public Hearings for citizens to review plans and comment on the northern section of the I-95/I-395 HOV/BUS/HOT Lanes Project. On Tuesday Feb 10, 2009, I attended a public hearing on the I-95/I-395 HOV/BUS/HOT Lane location and design. The following is a summary of my statement at the hearing:
My name is Rafael Lopez and I live at 3983 Orange St, Triangle, VA. I'm running for State Delegate for the 52nd District, which includes Triangle, Dumfries, Dale City, Quantico and Woodbridge. I have been and continue to be in favor of the HOT/BUS/HOV Lanes Project. This is a great partnership between our state government through VDOT and Fluor Transurban, a private company. The benefits are many: faster construction, more options for commuters, more consumers for local businesses, jobs for contractors, support for military bases, and above all, a better quality of life for all Virginians. Notwithstanding these benefits, we must make sure that our transportation design needs are addressed. That is why we are here.

In regards to noise barriers: We need to make sure that existing noise barriers are checked and replaced where necessary, especially near the Carolyn Forest area. Also, proposed noise barriers along Prince William States subdivision and Stockholm Way are necessary. I was an elected official for the Town of Dumfries and I know first hand that they are necessary. Please notethat a proposed noise barrier along Princeton Woods is currently labeled "not reasonable". Please reconsider this in light of the existing residential subdivision there. In regards to bus options: The inline bus station at Lorton is a great idea and is necessary.Other commuter lots south of this station would also benefit from similar measures to promote public bus use and reduce traffic. In regards to new I-395 access points: I would like to see more access points going north onI-395 because many commuters enter the highway system at various points in eastern Prince William County. Thank you.

GOTV for Pat Herrity

Earlier today I went to volunteer for Herrity's campaign on their GOTV effort. I was happy to see my friend Clark whom I had worked with in the recent presidential election. I wish I could do more to help Herrity but the election is this Tuesday and I have to work. Good luck Mr. Herrity! PS. Go Cardinals!!

Tito the Builder is Back!

Tito the Builder is back! Thanks to Tito and Debbie Munoz for hosting an important luncheon (Taco Fiesta) yesterday to discuss our minority outreach efforts. The luncheon was a success. Among a big crowd including friends, activists, and dignitaries, Tito and Debbie opened the meeting by sharing some of their life experiences. A serious discussion, dialogue, and exchange of ideas followed. Tito, a media critic, conservative activist, and now a coalition builder is at it again. (My friend, your efforts for an outreach to minorities on behalf of our party are to be commended!)