Richard L. "Dick" Saslaw* (D)
Office Sought: Va. Senate District 35
Age: 69
Residence: Annandale.
Education: BS, economics, University of Maryland.
Occupation: President, Amerasia LLC; president, Chantilly Associates; member, Virginia Senate.
Web site:http://www.dicksaslaw.com
E-mail address: vasenate35@aol.com
Offices and positions held: Virginia Senate, 1980-present; Virginia House of Delegates, 1976-80.
Why should voters elect you?
I have the experience, seniority and a proven record of accomplishment. Furthermore, if my party gains four seats, I will be the Senate majority leader.
What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction?
Transportation still remains the number one issue in Northern Virginia, despite HB3202 from the previous session. The bill was poorly assembled. The abuser fees are just one example. Additionally, the money appropriated for Northern Virginia does not keep pace with the rate of inflation for the cost of projects that have been identified for this region.
What is your plan to address the traffic problems in Virginia?
I believe the solution to gridlock will require a multi-faceted approach. The foundation of the plan must include a sustainable source of funding. A critical component to removing cars from the road is a significant investment in mass transit. To this end future development and transportation planning have to go hand and hand. Planning for development well in advance of the actual building will tell us where to build our transportation network. Northern VA will begin building High Occupancy Toll (HOT)lanes next year on the Beltway. While this is not my preferred method of solving the problems we currently are experiencing,it is one of the few vehicles available without raising the gas tax. These a just of few thoughts that I have on this issue.
Do you think current policies governing growth & development in your area are too restrictive, not restrictive enough or just right?
decline to answer
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