I earlier posted an article outlining my opposition to allowing single driver hybrid vehicles in high occupancy vehicle lanes. I also sent a letter to Virginia Governor Tim Kaine.
On the plus side, I received a swift response from the Office of the Governor in the form of a letter written by Virginia Secretary of Transportation Pierce R. Homer:
…The HOV lanes must provide a significant travel time savings if they are to encourage carpooling. I support and exemption of hybrid vehicles only when there is excess capacity on the HOV lanes. If the number of hybrids in the HOV lanes reduces the attractiveness of the lanes to high occupant vehicles, changes need to be made that include the possibility of limiting or eliminating the exemption.
Virginia’s HOV exemption for hybrid vehicles has resulted in an increase in the use of hybrids, which in general, are more fuel efficient and have cleaner emisions than a comparable non-hybrid vehicle. However, the primary purpose of the HOV lanes is to encourage carpooling and the movement of people. We will continue to monitor the situation and take appropriate action to ensure that the HOV lanes remain an attractive option to car-poolers. As you are likely aware, the number of hybrid vehicles eligible for the occupancy exemption on I-395 and I-95 HOV lanes has been capped.
Legislation was proposed in the 2008 session of the General Assembly to extend the hybrid exeption to July 2009. Governor Kaine signed the legislation on March 10, 2008 to extend the exemption. I would expect the issue to be further considered during the upcoming General Assembly Session…
I am pleased that Secretary Homer shares my views in the bold text above.
However, I was disappointed that current situation on I-66 was not specifically addressed in the response. My next step will likely be to contact my legislator in the Virginia General Assembly.
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