PHIA News Digest – Vol. 8, No. 24
I-95 collapse: Here are detours and travel guidance following the tanker truck fire
Drivers are urged to avoid the area and to seek alternative travel routes, or use SEPTA or other public transportation where possible. During a press conference Sunday, Leslie S. Richards, CEO and general manager of SEPTA, said the transportation service is finalizing details for an immediate service plan to go into effect over the next 24 to 48 hours.
SEPTA moves to increase rail service following I-95 bridge collapse
The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority is moving to add service on three Regional Rail lines following the collapse of a bridge on Interstate 95, a problem that could snarl commuting and impact other traffic on the East Coast’s primary north-south highway for months.
House passes Matzie/Marshall bill to boost rail safety
Pennsylvania is on track for improved rail safety after the PA House today voted to pass legislation by Beaver County state Reps. Rob Matzie and Jim Marshall that would strengthen state standards for freight trains and add reporting requirements for transport of hazardous materials.
Turnpike removing paper towel dispensers; aims to be first sustainable superhighway
Paper towel dispensers are being removed from service plazas on the Pennsylvania Turnpike in an aim to be the first sustainable superhighway.
PA expands acceptable documents for proof of Social Security number
PennDOT announced that the requirement for proof of Social Security Number for REAL ID products will expand to include additional documents. Per federal regulations, customers wishing to obtain a REAL ID product must present proof of Social Security Number.
Senate committee advances bill creating new fee for EVs
The Pennsylvania Senate Transportation Committee voted 13-1 to approve a Republican-authored bill eliminating the alternative fuels tax on electric vehicles and replacing it with a $290 annual flat fee — or pay $24.17 each month — for noncommercial EV drivers.
A new, transit-centered neighborhood for Philadelphia
A 90-year-old train station will anchor a $10 billion investment in urban development that could result in as much as 18 million square feet of new commercial and residential space over the next several decades.
