Virginia has made history by passing the first major, long-term transportation funding package in 27 years. To get us there, Gov. Bob McDonnell took the initiative to offer a bold plan to his colleagues in the Virginia General Assembly and admit that his plan did not have to be the final plan, but a start to a long-overdue conversation.

Members of the General Assembly had to compromise across party and regional lines to provide the best overall solution they could for the commonwealth.

This is exactly what we should expect from our elected officials. This is why we vote them into office - to do what is best for their constituents, to do what is best for Virginia.

Many of our locally elected lawmakers must be commended for solving one of Virginia's long-standing and most critical needs and, in doing so, providing the leadership that will make history and serve as an example for many years to come.

Sadly, we also have a few local legislators who sat on the sidelines with the same old excuses.

BILL HAMLIN
ROANOKE

Weather Journal

3 hours ago