The coalition that includes retailing and construction groups on Tuesday recommended increasing the gasoline tax and the sales tax to pay soaring costs for maintenance.

The Virginia Chamber of Commerce statement provides support for Governor Tim Kaine less than a week before he plans to unveil a transportation bill and call a June legislative session to consider it.

Kaine and fellow Democrats say costs of maintaining roads are rising and leaving little money for construction. Republican legislative leaders oppose a statewide tax increase.