Dear KTFC Members & Friends:
Governor Wolf this week gave the green light to resume construction projects statewide that were put on hold last month in response to the coronavirus pandemic. In a televised address Wednesday night, he said all suspended projects across the Commonwealth could be restarted as early as May 1 as long as they comply with strict safety rules that have been put in place to prevent the spread of the infection.
This is welcome news to the highway construction industry, which has been working closely with PennDOT, the Turnpike Commission and construction industry partners to incorporate the safety measures and plan for an orderly rollout of construction activity. It is also welcome news to the tens of thousands of construction workers and their families and the communities that rely on their contribution to the economy. Finally, with the resumption of road improvements, its good news to truckers and motorists who need safer and more convenient highways.
Associated Pennsylvania Constructors has posted a short video showing how construction activities in highway work zones can be carried out in conformance with social distancing and other sanitizing protocols. You can view that video here
TRANSPORTATION ISSUE UPDATE
- Governor Wolf announced details of his plans to reopen the Commonwealth’s economy next month.
- Did we ever imagine we’d need tips for driving on very lightly traveled roads as America hunkers down at home? Well, here you go.
- The Turnpike Commission became the latest transportation entity to yell “uncle” as it faces revenue shortfalls and considers cutting capital projects and public transportation subsidies.
- The U.S. Department of Transportation announced grants of nearly $240 million for 63 Pennsylvania airports. The funds will be for operating costs, as well as replacing lost revenue due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
- U.S. Transportation Secretary Chao also announced grants of $25 billion for public transportation systems across the country.