The US State of Virginia has sought federal aid worth $5.6bn for highway construction works under a six-year improvement programme.

Covering transportation demand management, bicycle, pedestrian and highway projects, the project will run from 2011 to 2016.

The programme will also seek $103m in federal funds to upgrade two of Virginia’s east-west highways and improve bridges and pavements.

The improvement plan will also allocate funds for other special projects including congestion mitigation, improving air quality and upgrading regional surface transportation.