THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Sunday, June 30, 1996 TAG: 9606280219
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 06 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 72 lines
Light rail should be public-private deal
I recently received a copy of the Executive Summary of the Norfolk-Virginia Beach Corridor Major Investment Study from the Tidewater Transportation District Commission. In the summary, various transportation alternatives ranging from doing nothing to a light rail system were discussed. The commission concluded that a light rail system connecting the oceanfront to the Norfolk waterfront and then on to the Naval Operating Base answered local needs best.
I concur with the findings and conclusion but wish to add a few suggestions. First, I would add a station at Oceana Boulevard and would even consider a spin off the main line to NAS Oceana, Dam Neck Naval Station and the rapidly growing residential area in the vicinity of Dam Neck.
Second, I would begin planning now for extended lines that will eventually extend to Williamsburg and Suffolk.
Third, and perhaps most important, I would change the finance and operation from government only to a public-private partnership. The public side would gain right of way, land for parking lots and track leasing agreements. The private side would own and maintain equipment, hire staff and be responsible for operations. Doing this would save taxpayers millions and would likely give better service even if it became necessary to subsidize operation.
The only real problem I have with light rail was why wasn't it started 15 years ago?
James R. Campbell
June 3 Kellam fans are grateful
Thanks for the memories, Kellam soccer players.
What a year! It all started back in March. You were picked in preseason to only finish third. But that didn't discourage you.
You started off the season by not winning the Kellam Classic Tournament. A setback? Nope. You knew better. From that point on, you had something to prove. And boy, did you ever do that.
It turned out to be a truly spectacular season. You set your sights high and your dreams even higher. This was going to be your year. Your accomplishments were second to none. You should be forever proud. For the very first time:
You defeated Cox.
You defeated Cox, First Colonial and Kempsville all in one season.
You captured the Beach District title.
You captured the Eastern Regional title.
You advanced to the state tournament.
You scored a school record 63 goals.
You posted the best season record in the school's history (15-4-1).
You placed five players on the first and second Beach District teams.
You ended your season ranked sixth in the state!
Through the unwavering support of the Kellam Krazies, you gave the faculty, students and parents a hundred memories for which we will forever cherish.
Kellam Corner Kick Club
June 26
City did right to reject fee
Congratulations to our City Council for rejecting the outrageous SPSA recycling fee increase.
Our city's leaders deserve our praise and support. The SPSA board is not interested (apparently) in providing efficient cost-effective service. It is a limited service in any event.
Regionalism is fine but not regionalism at any cost. Fiscal efficiency including administrative costs is paramount. SPSA, if it is to survive, must become cost effective.
Thank your Mr. Spore and council for your courageous action.
Robert L. Ringhauser
May 31 by CNB