HJR 194: Transportation Network of Hampton Roads

September 10, 2008

Chairman Jones gave brief opening remarks for the meeting.
Presentation

Mike Robinson, Sr. Project Scientist, Virginia Modeling, Analysis and Simulation Center (VMASC)
Mr. Robinson gave the members a project update, based on the discussions at the joint subcommittee's previous meeting on June 10. These projects include:

• Construction of the Third Crossing.
• Construction of the Southeastern Expressway/Dominion Boulevard.
• The Midtown Tunnel/Martin Luther King extension.
• Improvements to US Route 460.
• Widening of I-64 on Peninsula to Route 199.
• Widening of I-64 on Southside (including the High Rise Bridge) from Battlefield Boulevard to Bowers Hill.
• Expansion of the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT).

Mr. Robinson pointed out that his presentation included two alternatives for the HRBT -- one that added two lanes (one in each direction) and one that added four lanes (two in each direction), and visually contrasted regional traffic congestion in 2000 with two scenarios of projected congestion in 2030: one in which none of the projects were constructed ("no-build" scenario), and one in which all the projects were constructed. While these visual displays showed some significant preliminary results, Mr. Robinson emphasized that VMASC's analysis would not be complete until some time in mid-November, and that the final product would include additional consideration of large trucks and cargoes, impacts from tourism, and consequences of traffic accidents, breakdowns, and similar incidents.

In discussions following the presentation, several members commented on the less-than-hoped-for impact of project construction on traffic congestion on Interstate Route 64 (I-64) on the Peninsula between the HRBT and Virginia Route 199 near Williamsburg. Representatives from the Peninsula suggested the need for more analysis of traffic that uses I-64 between the HRBT and the Hampton Coliseum, but does not travel through the HRBT itself.

Next Meeting

Chairman Jones suggested considering VMASC's final product in December. The next meeting date will be posted on the study’s website and the General Assembly calendar as soon as information is available.

Chairman:
The Hon. S. Chris Jones

For information, contact:
Alan Wambold, Caroline Stalker , DLS Staff

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