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Posted Nov. 1, 2002

Traffic Too Bad Not to Vote 'Yes'

To the editor:

It is increasingly clear that Northern Virginia's transportation problems have become unmanageable. While I live just a few miles from my workplace, it takes me longer and longer to get to work. The same is true for routine errands--driving kids to sports practice, shopping, etc.

I am convinced that the Northern Virginia Transportation referendum is the only way we will see relief from these problems. By assessing ourselves an additional half-cent in sales tax, we will raise some $5 billion in new revenue for transportation projects.

By law, this money can only be spent on Northern Virginia projects selected by Northern Virginia citizens. It will fund a balanced mix of transportation enhancements including upgrades to existing transit and extension of transit to the Dulles Corridor, as well as a variety of critical road improvements.

This tax will not apply to food, prescription or non-prescription drugs. I believe that the approximately 25 cents a day the tax will cost the average Northern Virginia household is an investment in our future and quality of life.

I hope you will join me in voting for the Northern Virginia sales tax referendum on Nov. 5.

Daniel Wright

Herndon