U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) continued his efforts today to improve traffic congestion and promote economic development along U.S. 19 and W.V. 3 near Airport Road in the Beaver and Shady Spring area. After meeting with members of the Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce as well as local delegates and urging the West Virginia Department of Transportation to look into a proposal to fix the problem, Congressman Rahall asked the Nick J. Rahall, II Appalachian Transportation Institute (RTI) today to assist in a review of the project.

"We need to do everything possible to fix this traffic situation and I think we can do it in a way that will create new jobs by opening up access to the Raleigh County Memorial Airport and Industrial Park, which are poised for significant growth in the future," said Rahall. "I am urging our decision makers and our great transportation minds across the state to come together on this and figure out the best solution."

Since its inception, RTI has become a strong leader in transportation research and education in an effort to build jobs through transportation. RTI continues to help influence a more diverse and equitable economy for rural Appalachia and other mountain areas by providing insights into how to create and maintain the most cost effective enhancement to our national transportation system.

"We at RTI are looking forward to helping with this project," said Dr. Richard Begley, Associate Director of the Nick J. Rahall, II Appalachian Transportation Institute. "We appreciate the opportunity to bring our expertise to the table to help solve the transportation problems of southern West Virginia."

The proposal was prepared by the Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce. It has the full support of the Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce, the Beckley-Raleigh County Airport Authority and many local businesses and residents.

"I am urging the Rahall Institute to take a look at the proposal to see what options might be possible," said Rahall. "RTI can use their experience to create a report on the economic development possibilities, safety issues, potential cost and other matters surrounding this project."

Rahall concluded, "I am hopeful that RTI, along with the West Virginia Department of Transportation and all others involved, will be able to come up with a plan to fix the traffic problem and create opportunities for new businesses and industries."