Issue Position: Economic Development
I have supported and will continue to support federal investment in the economy of the Fifth District of Virginia. I have been fortunate to secure, through my work on the Appropriations Committee, many millions of dollars in direct investment in the Fifth District. In addition, my amendments to TEA-21 provided funds for Fifth District Highways, including I-73, Route 29, Route 501, and off Route 58. As a member of the State Senate, I was one of the leaders fighting for the Route 58 Corridor Legislation, which provided for recordation tax funding for much of the Route 58 construction. Measures that I have secured through the Appropriations committee have brought water and sewer improvements, assistance for community revitalization efforts, and funding for technology, agriculture, aviation, and transportation initiatives. These measures have been important to keep and attract business and industry to the Fifth District.