What are the most central problems in your state concerning one of the following: (a) air transportation, (b) railroads, (c) water transportation, (d) highways, or (e) public transportation. (To answer this question, obtain a copy of the governor’s plan for transportation in your state or contact a key official in the transportation department.)

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

(a) A problem in Virginia concerning air transportation is the high cost associated with short haul flights from airports such as Richmond and Norfolk to connection hubs for major airlines. Another problem is that our air transportation system is aging while the demand continues to increase; our air transportation system is approaching capacity and requiring substantial capital investment to provide modern terminals, increase the number of gates and available parking.
(b) Virginia is experiencing a new dilemma with its railroads. For the first time in nearly 30 years, freight railroads are expanding their operations and growing to serve their market segment. To continue to compete with other railroads in neighboring states, Virginia must investigate the possibility of providing rail clearances to facilitate double-stacking of containers into the Port of Hampton Roads. Another problem associated with the increase in freight rail transportation is the conflict encountered with passenger trains running on freight company-owned tracks. As the demand for passenger rail service increases and the freight market share increases, more conflicts will likely occur and the passenger services may require parallel or additional track mileage to meet
demand.
(c) The most central problem concerning water transportation in Virginia is the increased build-up of silt in our channels. In order for Virginia to remain competitive, it will have to continue to dredge our navigable waterways. Another problem is the increased volume of pleasure crafts and cargo vessels. The increased interaction between these types of vessels will likely result in moreserious accidents. To mitigate this, more boater safety classes should be providedto ensure all boat operators are responsible on the water.
(d) Virginia's highways are experiencing increased volumes and delays while the overall infrastructure is continuing to age. The volume of trucks on Virginia's highways are significantly increasing annually. As a result, Virginia is experiencing an accelerated deterioration of our highways as well as more serious accidents.
(e) The major problem concerning public transportation is that modern systems such as the ones in Atlanta and San Francisco are not present in Virginia. Only Northern Virginia and the suburbs of Washington, D.C. have rapid rail transit in form of the Metro system that is now facing major renovations. Virginia does not have a sophisticated rural public transportation system that provides all individuals with a means of transportation.