CHAPTER 345

An Act to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered
88-57.1, to permit the acquisition by the State Highway Commission of
real property which may be needed for the construction of highways
or projects within a period of twelve years for the Interstate Highway
System or six years for any other highway system, and the lease or
other utilization thereof. CH 58]

Approved March 29, 1958

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. § 1. When the State Highway Commission determines that any real
property will be required in connection with the construction of a highway,
or “project” as defined in § 33-228 of the Code, within a period not exceed-
ing twelve years for the Interstate Highway System or six years for any
other highway system from the time of such determination, and that it would
be advantageous to the State to acquire such real property, it may proceed
to do so. Any real property so acquired shall be held in the physical posses-
sion and control of the owner from whom such real property is acquired,
if requested by him, subject to a reasonable rental if such property be
improved, until the State Highway Commission shall give such owner
written notice of the intention to immediately begin construction of the
highway or project contemplated. In the event that the Ti giwEy or project
contemplated has not been substantially completed within a period of
twelve years, if in the Interstate Highway System, or seven years, if in
any other system of highways, from the date of the acquisition of such
property, upon written demand of the owner or owners, their heirs or
assigns, such property shall be reconveyed by the Commonwealth of Vir-
ginia to such owner or owners, their heirs or assigns, upon repayment of
the original purchase price, without interest.