State legislators appear to be on the way to approving a road bond sale totaling $110 million, part of a $550 million, five-year sale authorized by voters in 1996.
We hope the Legislature stays the course on this sale. It's almost impossible to win in today's competitive economy without good highways. In a climate where states compete to attract new business development, modern highways always top the list of minimum requirements to even be a contender for new jobs and investment.
With a rich store of natural and scenic beauty, not to mention numerous four-season opportunities for recreation, the Mountain State is located just a few hours away from major population centers. Tourism already ranks high in West Virginia's economy, and we think this will grow even larger in coming years. But it can't happen without good highways.
Improvements in the major components of economic good health ultimately pay dividends to all West Virginians. Transportation, along with education, is part of that ongoing improvement process. It is an investment in a future we all share.
We think the voters endorsed this investment in 1996. It is up to our legislators to continue the improvements.
