VA HB1000

Creates the Rappahannock Transportation Authority as a new regional body covering Planning District 16, initially including the City of Fredericksburg and counties with populations exceeding 150,000 (Stafford and Spotsylvania counties), with other localities in the district able to join voluntarily.

Establishes the Rappahannock Area Transportation Fund, funded by a 0.50% additional retail sales tax (excluding food and essential hygiene products) and a $0.06 per $100 recordation fee on real estate transfers within member localities.

Allocates fund revenues with 60% retained by the Authority for regional transportation projects and transit services, and 40% returned proportionally to member localities for local mobility improvements including roads, sidewalks, trails, and transit.

Governs the Authority with a board composed of two elected representatives from each member county and city, one state delegate, one state senator, one Commonwealth Transportation Board member, and four non-voting ex officio members from transportation agencies.

Grants the Authority powers to issue bonds, impose tolls on new or improved transportation facilities, enter public-private partnerships, and acquire or construct highways, bridges, and tunnels within the planning district.