Expanding light rail

Expanding light rail
Published: Tuesday, 19 May 2009, 9:34 PM EDT
WAVY.com
Melanie Woodrow

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Hampton Roads Transit President Michael Townes says you don’t have to look far beyond your car to see why expanding Light Rail is a good idea.

“All you have to do is look at 264 and see that people want to have that link between Norfolk and Virginia Beach,” said Townes.

It may seem like an obvious idea, but it’s not one taken lightly.

Tuesday, the city began the first phase of a 5.7 million dollar feasibility study to determine whether or not Virginia Beach should jump on board The Tide.

“It’s a lot of money but at the same time if we’re really truly looking ahead at a true transportation system in our city and our region light rail is going to have to be a part of it,” said Mayor Sessoms.

The 12 to 18 month study will examine possible routes and alternate types of transit, like light rail, trolleys and buses.

“I believe Virginia Beach is well suited for light rail transit. It will benefit not only from the transportation aspects but from the vast economic development benefits,” said Townes.

Still there are some concerns.

“From the other side let’s face it, developing rail transit is not inexpensive,” said Townes.

Mayor Sessoms says this is just the start of what will likely be higher speed rail.

“It could go from Richmond to Raleigh and leave us out completely but we must fight to make sure it comes to Hampton Roads.”