The Coalition for Smarter Growth appreciates DRPT’s involvement in the I-495 southside corridor issue. Our organization has been engaged for over two decades in the transportation and land use issues that connect Prince George’s County and Northern Virginia. Please consider our comments on the I-495 Southside Transit & TDM Study.

Officials release bloated $75.7B transportation plan for NoVA is unlikely to "solve congestion". Needed - a new approach: A plan that improves access to opportunity, reduces driving, saves families money, and fights climate change.

The Coalition for Smarter Growth appreciates the efforts of the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (VDRPT) to improve mobility within the I-495 corridor between Springfield and Maryland. However, to truly address the needs of the study area communities on either side of the Woodrow Wilson bridge and the metropolitan region, VDOT will need to take a broader and more holistic approach consistent with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

Despite a new climate action plan by TPB’s parent agency the Council of Governments, this Visualize 2045 makes no real changes and fails to reduce emissions any more than the last one.

I’ll begin with expressing deep appreciation for your public service and the service of all staff. I join others in praising your Gateway dashboard. We also appreciate the support some jurisdictions have given to dedicated bike/ped and transit investments.