PHIA News Digest – Vol. 11, No. 3

Jan 19, 2026 | PHIA NEWS DIGEST

PA leads the nation in constructing electric vehicle charging stations

On Jan. 13, PennDOT announced the opening of eight new federally-funded Electric Vehicle charging stations in Pennsylvania, built using funds from the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program. The new stations bring Pennsylvania’s total EV stations opened under the program to 28, opening 22 charging stations in 2025 through $13 million in federal investment.

$1.25M grant means safety improvements for Easton’s Larry Holmes Drive

Larry Holmes Drive, one of the main gateways into Downtown Easton, could see significant changes soon as the city advances traffic and pedestrian safety improvements.

SEPTA trolley tunnel reopens after months-long shutdown

SEPTA’s Center City trolley tunnel reopened this week, nearly two months after the unplanned shutdown began. The tunnel had been closed since Nov. 7. Two weekend closures and one week-long closure are planned for January and February.

$150M Avenue of the Arts transformation breaks ground

A major project to bring new greenery and public art to one of Philadelphia’s busiest corridors is moving forward. Nonprofit Avenue of the Arts Inc. held a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday on South Broad Street, and construction is set to commence later this month on the $150M project.

Rep. Shaffer appointed to House Transportation Committee

Rep. Jeremy Shaffer (R-Allegheny) announced he’s been named to the state House Transportation Committee. Shaffer, an engineer with a Carnegie Mellon doctorate and deep experience in transportation safety, is looking forward to advancing infrastructure solutions.

PennDOT to begin construction on I-95 Girard Point Bridge rehab

PennDOT announced that construction will begin on Jan. 12, on the $261.5 million, two-phase project to rehabilitate the Interstate 95 Girard Point Bridge and nine approach structures in Southwest Philadelphia.