One vote short: Even the CTB is divided on this flawed process
In a move that reflects just how controversial this "rushed" process has been, the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) was split down the middle with a 6-6 tie. Ultimately, the outgoing Secretary of Transportation cast the tie-breaking vote in favor of transferring the project and its funding to the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority (VPRA).
While the outcome is not what we hoped for, today proved one thing: Your voices were heard.
You can watch the meeting recordings here: Presentation | Public Comment | Vote
The fact that half of the Board members were troubled enough by this flawed process to vote "No" is a testament to the thousands of emails and calls community members made over the last weeks. We may have fallen one vote short, but we have successfully shifted the narrative. This is no longer a "done deal" that will happen in the dark; it is a project under intense scrutiny.
Today was a setback, but it is not the end of the trail.
We’ll be in touch as soon as we learn more about what exactly will happen next. (Make sure you’re signed up for emails!) Today’s vote committed the Commonwealth to additional public engagement in the months to come.
