Virginia transportation secretary stresses project delivery, safety and improved local communication
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Summary
Secretary Nick Donahue told a House subcommittee he will focus on delivering existing projects (I-81, Hampton Roads), rail initiatives and WMATA funding needs, and called out rising roadway fatalities; members pressed VDOT notification practices and permitting's relation to housing costs.
Nick Donahue, Virginia's secretary of transportation, told a House subcommittee the administration will prioritize delivering major projects, improve maintenance and operations, and seek creative approaches to reduce roadway fatalities.
Donahue reviewed his transportation background and highlighted work his offices led on the I-81 Corridor Improvement Program, the Hampton Roads express lanes and the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel project. He also described the Transforming Rail in Virginia initiative—transactions with CSX and Norfolk Southern intended to expand passenger rail service to Hampton Roads, Richmond, the New River Valley and Roanoke—and referenced the Long Bridge project across the Potomac.
On safety, Donahue said Virginia previously had been around "the 800 or so" roadway fatalities but that the number is now "over 900," and he urged looking for creative options to reduce severe injuries and deaths. He said the department will examine options to address WMATA's funding needs and other transit priorities across the commonwealth.
Committee members raised operational concerns. Delegate Paul Krizak said delegates are often the last to know about Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) projects and requested earlier notice—"send us an email, like, at least a week before"—so delegates can respond to constituents. Donahue acknowledged the concern and said the department would work on improving notification processes.
Delegate Josh Thomas, who works in commercial real estate and home construction, said VDOT requirements can increase the cost of housing in Northern Virginia and urged listening sessions with the development community; Donahue said executive orders direct the department to examine permitting and other steps to help speed housing production and offered to follow up.
Members also pressed Donahue on completion incentives and communications for the I-64 and Hampton Roads work; Donahue said he would discuss incentive options and called ongoing construction "tough at times" but said the projects will yield benefits.
The committee did not take formal votes during the session. Donahue offered to meet individually with members to discuss specifics and next steps.