
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SATURDAY, August 21, 1993                   TAG: 9308210193
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-2   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short

TODAY'S TOPIC: U.S. 58

The Virginia Department of Transportation has proposed bisecting Mount Rogers National Recreation Area with a four-lane U.S. 58. The segment from Galax west to Volney and then north to Interstate 81 near Marion would cost taxpayers at least $155 million, but the route would only be two-tenths of a mile longer if U.S. 58 was routed on existing interstates [77 and 81]. As governor, would you support this spending, which would have detrimental effects to the Mount Rogers recreation area?

- Mark Barker, Roanoke

Mary Sue Terry:

"I think those are the kind of issues to be answered by the transportation board. My job as governor will be to give my 150 percent commitment to the continued four-laning of 58. I'm the only candidate in this race who has had an unqualified position of support on this issue throughout its history, having been reared a mile and a half off of 58 and coming from one of the counties across which 58 goes that has not a single mile of four-lane highway [Patrick County]. I don't think anyone questions my bona fide in terms of the funding."

George Allen:

"It only saves two-tenths of a mile? I'd have to review it . . . I think all state spending needs to be examined as to its usefulness. I would just have to look at it in greater detail."

Got a question for the candidates for governor? We'll try to get you an answer and publish it. Call 981-3119, or 1-800-346-1234 extension 119, and follow the directions.

by CNB