What is it with all this secrecy and lack of "sunshine" over the Tysons Tunnel project. Perhaps it has to do with the sole-source, no-bid contract awarded to Bechtel? Perhaps it has to do with the fact that politicians realize they are on the wrong side, big time, of public opinion on this issue? Either way, there's no excuse for a project of this magnitude to be shrouded in so much secrecy. All that does is make it look like there's something to hide? Maybe there isn't, but all the closed-door negotiations sure as hell make it look that way. Personally, I'm disgusted by this entire process, and the utter lack of common sense that could lead us to this point.
Here's the bottom line, as far as I'm concerned: the Metro to Dulles project will be around for 100+ years, will affect the entire region in enormous ways, and therefore needs to be done right or not done at all. If Metro to Dulles turns into a "Big Dig" style boondoggle, which is looking more and more likely, we will be regretting it for a long time to come. If we go with an "aerial" option in Tysons that prevents that community from developing into a walkdable, liveable, functional "edge city," then in years to come, people will look back and say, "who were the idiots who thought up THIS ONE?!?"
Frankly, I find this entire process to have been conducted in an outrageous fashion, one of the worst, most screwed up governmental decision-making processes I think I've ever seen on a project of this multi-billion-dollar magnitude. I'm disgusted, frustrated, and angry. How about you?
P.S. Let's not forget the gridlock in Tysons that will occur during construction of this boondoggle fiasco monstrosity. Maybe THAT helps explain why our elected officials are hiding from the public on this one? Hmmmm.
Just as Fairfax county is turning reliably blue, it hurts to have a Democratic governor drive a stake through the heart of the center of Northern Virginia. The Fairfax Republicans must love the political gift he's given them.