Virginia seeks public input on draft of long-term transportation plan

The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) is soliciting public comments on a draft of the 2013 Virginia Statewide Transit and Transportation Demand Management Plan (TDM).

The plan details the status of transit and TDM in Virginia and recommends service and capital improvements through 2040, Virginia state officials said in a press release. The plan recommends continued maintenance of transit assets in a state of good repair, an expansion of transit and TDM capacity, and construction of major transit capital projects in areas of major population growth and density.

"While Virginia has seen light rail open in Norfolk in recent years and the Silver Line is near completion in Northern Virginia, there is a great need to continue to invest in high quality transit service throughout the commonwealth," said Virginia Secretary of Transportation Sean Connaughton. "This plan provides direction to make those investments in a balanced and responsible way."

The plan is posted on the department's website for a 30-day public review and comment period. Comments received before 30 days will be summarized in the plan, officials said.