George,

This morning's editorial in the Daily Progress commends former Delegate "Butch" Davies for his service on the Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB), and strongly recommends his re-appointment. I couldn't agree more!

I've worked with Mr. Davies on local transportation projects for many years.

He is an effective advocate for his district at a time when the State faces many competing demands for transportation funding. He is responsive to the public, collaborates with local governments, and is more adroit than many transportation engineers in his understanding of road networks and their impacts on traffic patterns and congestion.

Unfortuntely, today's editorial left the impression that I have applied for Mr. Davies' position on the CTB. After speaking with Bob Gibson, I know that this interpretation was unintentional. Nevertheless, it's important to make the point that, while I am in consideration for appointment to the CTB, it is not as Culpeper District representative, but for one of two available Urban at-large positions.

Virginia Law specifies that the five "at-large" CTB members should represent the interests of the entire State, rather than those of a single district, and should be mindful of the concerns of railways, mass transit, seaports and airports. This fits my interests and background very well. Perhaps Governor Kaine will see it that way, perhaps not.

Butch Davies is a friend and colleague with whom I look forward to working in the future. He should be re-appointed to the CTB, in the interest of the Culpeper District, and to the benefit of the Commonwealth.

Meredith Richards (electronic mail, August 18, 2006)