PHIA News Digest – Vol. 6, No. 18
Mask mandate for air travel, public transportation extended through Sept. 13
Travelers will be required to wear face masks inside airports and on planes, buses and trains through Sept. 13.
Harrisburg to New York City in 24 minutes? Hyperloop advocates say it’s possible
It’s faster than the fastest train. The technology is more similar to the vacuum tube that takes a check from alongside a car to a teller at a bank drive-through window. But will hyperloop, as it’s known, ever really transport people?
State panel explores alternatives to bridge tolls and gas taxes
The commission, set to issue a report in August, is studying other ways to even a gap of $9 billion between what Pennsylvania takes in and what it needs to fix roads and bridges.
PennDOT shares draft transportation funding study
PennDOT is hosting an on-demand virtual public meeting and comment period for a Planning and Environmental Linkages study exploring sustainable transportation funding options. The public meeting is accessible online at all hours of the day through June 1, 2021, at www.penndot.gov/funding.
Pennsylvania releases automated vehicles survey
PennDOT recently launched a survey on behalf of Pennsylvania’s Highly Automated Vehicle Advisory Committee. Results will be used to gain an understanding of residents’ thoughts on automated vehicles.
REAL ID enforcement deadline pushed back to 2023
The Department of Homeland Security says the REAL ID full enforcement date is moving from Oct. 1, 2021 to May 3, 2023. DHS says the pandemic has significantly impacted states’ abilities to issue Real IDs.
Pa. bill would mandate hands-free cellphone use
As a parent and legislator, I have strived to continue shedding light on the importance of roadway safety, especially distracted driving, not only to my children but to all Pennsylvanians.
Pa. Senate OKs bill to halt plans to toll bridges
Republicans in Pennsylvania’s Senate are trying to make Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration start over on its plans to toll up to nine major bridges, approving a bill Tuesday to require the state Department of Transportation to undergo a new process that includes approval from the legislature.
Pa.’s infrastructure in need of an upgrade?
The need to improve, upgrade and modernize the nation’s infrastructure is an issue that most Americans and elected officials from both parties can agree on.
