The governor told us to think beyond the box. Don't stay in the same old rut for 50 years. Antiquated forms of taxation have not kept up with the realities of the new economy, said Dewberry, a member of governor's transportation commission. Virginia, once an agricultural and, to some extent, a manufacturing state, has evolved into a service-oriented state, especially in technology, and not all companies are taxed the same way. A researcher at the University of Virginia said overhauling the funding stream for transportation raises several questions.
Interstate opponents say historical sites and environmental issues are their best means of defense.
Henry County residents somehow got I-73 rerouted. The endangered fish, farm land and forests are concerns that may affect the federal approval of I-73. The new plan through Henry County will also cost just a little less to build. It won't be an interstate in West Virginia. In Virginia, the section from Bluefield to Roanoke is on the back burner.