ROANOKE TIMES

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

DATE: SUNDAY, January 19, 1992                   TAG: 9201170201
SECTION: CURRENT                    PAGE: NRV-6   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short


BLACKSBURG CHAMBER BACKS SMART HIGHWAY

The Greater Blacksburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has adopted a resolution on the proposed "smart highway" direct link to connect Blacksburg/Virginia Tech to the Roanoke Valley.

Our chamber feels that this could be the last opportunity for several years to impact the transportation issues of congestion on U.S. 460 and direct access to Interstate 81. Furthermore, we realize the economic development impact this highway would have on the New River Valley, which equates to jobs and revenues for this part of the commonwealth.

Following is the resolution. \ Patrick Cupp\ President

Whereas it is recognized that a more direct route from Blacksburg/Virginia Tech to the Roanoke Valley would encourage economic development;

Whereas, the Greater Blacksburg Chamber of Commerce sees the "smart highway" concept as an opportunity to garner private as well as federal and state funds;

Therefore, the Greater Blacksburg Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors endorses the concept of the "smart highway" provided it be a limited access highway with a parkway-type design.



by Archana Subramaniam by CNB