PHIA News Digest – Vol. 6, No. 3
Colin McNickle: Pa. Turnpike struggles continue
Awash in rising debt because of dubious public policies and struggling to overcome the financial effects of the continuing coronavirus pandemic, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission could find its very ability to operate in jeopardy, finds an analysis by the Allegheny Institute for Public Policy.
Johnstown lawmaker named majority chairman of state Senate Transportation Committee
A Johnstown area lawmaker has been picked to head the state Senate Transportation Committee.
Hennessey reappointed to House Transportation Committee
House Republican leaders have announced committee assignments for the 2021-22 Legislative Session, naming Rep. Tim Hennessey (R-Chester/Montgomery) to his second consecutive term as chairman of the House Transportation Committee.
USDOT awards $40 million in grants for commuter-rail crossing fixes
The U.S. Department of Transportation announced $40 million in grants will be awarded to five states, including Pennsylvania, seeking to improve safety at grade crossings.
Wolf administration invests in rail infrastructure
Governor Tom Wolf announced the approval of 26 rail freight improvement projects that will enhance freight mobility while creating or sustaining more than 200 jobs across Pennsylvania.
Schultz sworn in as STB member, giving board a full five members
Michelle Schultz has been sworn in as the newest member of the Surface Transportation Board, giving the agency overseeing rail regulation a full five members for the first time since a law expanding its membership passed in 2015.
