Stay Informed!

Notice: Undefined variable: Miscellaneous1 in /var/www/vhosts/solutionmedia.net/httpdocstemplates/BJ-detContent.php on line 13

Back to List

Josephs: PennDOT should use federal stimulus money to fix broken transportation infrastructure, invest in next generation of transit

PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 22 – As the state anticipates receipt of a stimulus package from the federal government, state Rep. Babette Josephs is encouraging state Transportation Secretary Allen Biehler to focus on three points when finalizing PennDOT's priority list of projects for its share of the funding.

PennDOT developed an initial list, but has asked legislators to offer input as it continues to develop a final project list.

On Friday, Josephs sent a letter to Biehler asking him to list projects that will:

· fix and repair what is broken,

· prioritize the next generation of transit and

· prioritize bicycle and pedestrian projects.

"The stimulus package is a critical opportunity to stimulate the Commonwealth's economy and benefit the environment," she said. "As PennDOT develops this list, I think it is very important to focus on these goals.

"Our infrastructure is vital to our economy. We need to repair and restore roads and bridges before proposing any expansion.

"In addition, investing in hybrid buses, light rail and new train lines -- as well as fixing our existing roads and bridges -- all create more jobs per dollar spent than just building new roads. And they give us something we desperately need: an affordable and sustainable ride to work."

Josephs also wrote that focusing on bicycle and pedestrian projects will benefit the environment.

"Pennsylvania needs to install more bicycle facilities and repair sidewalks to make it safer for people to bike and walk their short trips. PennDOT should play a lead role in facilitating the installation of more bicycle lanes, trails, sidewalks and crossings," Josephs wrote.

Josephs said that she will continue to follow the progress of the $825 billion stimulus plan for the states as Congress continues to work on it. Under the plan currently, $90 billion would be earmarked for infrastructure spending, with about $30 billion for highways and bridges. The U.S. House is expected to vote on the bill next week.

###