As the West Virginia Legislature considers a bill that would put the vote a $1.5 billion bond for a broad slate of roadway projects across the state, a new poll finds that most people support it.
Fifty-three percent of likely voters in West Virginia said they would support the bond, according to a statewide poll conducted by Buckhannon-based Orion Strategies. Twenty-seven percent said they would oppose the bond, with 21 percent undecided.
"This is phenomenal. It shows that West Virginians understand the needs of our state and where our future lies," said Stephen Foster, chairman of the Corridor H Authority and executive director of the Upshur County Development Authority.
The bond would finish Corridor H, partially constructed through Buckhannon and Elkins and planned to run into Virginia, 15 years ahead of schedule.
"I can't help but believe that when undecided voters hear facts about how an improved highway system will help ensure our economic future, they will also be in favor of completing these projects," Foster said.
Also included in House Bill 4013 and Senate Bill 160 are the Coalfields Expressway, the King Coal Highway, the Wellsburg Ohio River bridge and 13 other projects.
The poll surveyed 400 likely voters throughout West Virginia. It has a margin of error of plus or minus 5 percentage points.
Of poll respondents, 95 percent "strongly" or "somewhat" agreed that there is a need for additional maintenance and construction for highways, roads and bridges in the state.
And 87 percent said they "very much" or "somewhat" believe that transportation affects economic development and jobs.
Foster connected transportation with economic development, and especially, in the light of the announcement that West Virginia exports have reached a record $9 billion, with export activity.
Corridor H, he said by way of example, will lead straight to the inland port in Front Royal, Va.
"When Corridor H is completed, our exports will go through the roof," he said.
The House and Senate bills have been in their respective finance committees since Jan. 11.
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