The Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance supports HB 277 for several important reasons.

First, federal, state and regional transportation studies over the past sixty years have documented its purpose, need and benefits.

Second, the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority’s TransAction 2030 Plan includes the Western Bypass Corridor and shows that it diverts over 100,000 vehicles per day off I-95 as well Routes 123, 234, 3000, 7100 and other north-south corridors.

Third, a Western Bypass corridor provides a critically needed link to move passengers and freight to Washington Dulles International Airport. Studies by the Washington Airports Task Force have documented the need and benefits of such a facility. Clearly the jobs and other economic benefits generated by a Western Bypass would far exceed the cost of construction and operation.

Fourth, the Western Bypass is supported by and included in the list of transportation priorities of virtually all major Northern Virginia business organizations.

Fifth, and perhaps most importantly, the public supports a Western Bypass connecting I-95 with Loudoun County and Dulles Airport by a 3-1 margin. A 2009 survey commissioned by the Alliance found that 62% of Fairfax County residents, 64% of Prince William County residents and 66% of Loudoun County residents support such a facility.

In short, transportation studies, economic analysis, the business community and public as a whole recognize the importance and support the construction of a Western Bypass and the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance hopes the members of this Subcommittee will support HB 277 to help move this facility forward.