PHIA News Digest – Vol. 11, No. 16

Apr 20, 2026 | PHIA NEWS DIGEST

Pa. audit says Motor Voter system works, needs improvement

Pennsylvania’s Motor Voter system “works as intended,” but needs some improvements to avoid human error, an audit released Friday by the state’s auditor general found. The Motor Voter system is a program established by federal law that allows potential voters to register when acquiring a driver’s license.

PennDOT highlights new efforts to modernize transportation, improve safety

Pennsylvania transportation officials say dozens of new initiatives are helping improve safety, reduce costs and modernize infrastructure across the state. PennDOT released its latest “Focus on Innovations” report, outlining more than 30 projects and strategies introduced or continued over the past year.

National Work Zone Awareness Week highlights driver and worker safety

This week is National Work Zone Awareness Week – emphasizing how important it is to keep drivers and highway workers safe. In 2024, Pennsylvania saw 1,250 work zone crashes with 22 fatalities, according to PennDOT.

Pa. Turnpike pilot program to alert drivers ahead of stopped, slow traffic

The Pa. Turnpike Commission is piloting a new advanced warning system designed to alert drivers about stopped or slow traffic ahead. The Queue Warning System uses real-time traffic detection to identify backlogs and then provides an alert to drivers via the portable changeable message signage, the commission said in a news release.

Pa. rail safety legislation clears House vote

Sponsored by state Rep. Rob Matzie (D-Beaver), House Bill 1191 would, among other things, prohibit trains from blocking crossings, limit train length to 8,500 feet, and require a minimum two-person crew on trains. The legislation also enforces proper functioning of wayside detector systems, a critical component in preventing derailments before they happen.

How conflict in Iran is impacting Pa trucking companies & their fuel costs

Trucking companies say they’re feeling the effects of diesel prices rising over the last month, which could impact all of us. Truck company officials say the cost of fuel has nearly doubled for them, making transportation very difficult right now.

SEPTA releases 2027 budget proposal

SEPTA is requesting a one-time transfer of capital funds to its operating budget following an emergency approval from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. This will keep full-service levels going through June 2027.