Virginia legislators approved a nearly $1.5 billion bond package Wednesday to finance higher education, state parks and mental health facilities with public borrowing.

A team of lawmakers had met weekly since the legislature adjourned six weeks ago to negotiate the list of 75 construction projects.

The package passed unanimously out of both houses during a special session that began immediately following the adjournment of a one-day reconvened session to consider the governor's amendments and vetoes.

The legislation passed with an emergency clause, which means construction can begin as soon as Governor Tim Kaine signs it.

Legislators earmarked $110 million to replace Western State Hospital, a state psychiatric facility. Another $82 million was allotted for mental health facilities, as lawmakers focused their attention on the state's mental health infrastructure following last April's shootings at Virginia Tech by a mentally disturbed student.

Legislators also used the special session to name about two dozen judicial appointments. They left town Wednesday night with six still in limbo.

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