An adequately funded transportation program would add more than 50,000 jobs to the Pennsylvania economy, lowering the state’s unemployment by nearly 10 percent, according to an economic study commissioned by Associated Pennsylvania Constructors.

The study was conducted by Alison Premo Black, vice president of policy for the American Road & Transportation Builders Association. Ms. Black, an economist, used a proven methodology employed by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

The projections were based on capital expenditures of $5 billion per year, or about twice the current level of spending. A program of that magnitude is in keeping with the needs identified in a report recently adopted by the State Transportation Commission.

Notably, 58 percent of the new jobs would be in sectors other than highway construction. It would add about $7 billion in wages and generate about $80 million per year in payroll and income tax revenue.

“In addition to the immediate boost to economic recovery, investing in the transportation infrastructure would enable Pennsylvania to achieve its long-term economic growth potential,” said PHIA Managing Director Jason Wagner. “And the users of the transportation system would benefit from congestion relief and improved safety.”

To read the study, click here.