High-speed rail supported heavily at public hearing

[mahatmakanejeeves]

High-speed rail supported heavily at public hearing

By JOHN REID BLACKWELL | TIMES-DISPATCH STAFF WRITER
Published: July 21, 2010

Rail's present, future in Va.

A proposed high-speed passenger train system linking Richmond and Raleigh, N.C., got an overwhelming show of support at a public hearing in Richmond last night.

Local residents, government officials and representatives of advocacy groups supporting the Southeast High Speed Rail Corridor said it would reduce traffic congestion on the highways, cut down on pollution, and help contribute to tourism and business in the region.

"We are not going to be able to pave our way out of congestion," said Daniel L. Plaugher, executive director of Virginians for High Speed Rail, during the hearing at the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles office on West Broad Street.

"We need to make high-speed rail a reality."

I like the irony of holding the hearing at the DMV. OK, it was the most convenient place that had a conference room available. Still....

[Leontius]

1. If only someone would take the lead to make this type of

development a reality.