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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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CONTACT: Amy
Figard |
State Rep. Paul Costa |
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New PA Turnpike Web site informs, calls for public input
HARRISBURG, March 26 -- State Rep. Paul Costa, D-Allegheny, is encouraging constituents to visit a new stop along the “information superhighway” that provides important news concerning possible changes to the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
A new Web site -- www.pahouse.com/yourturnpike -- has been launched to provide public access to information regarding Gov. Ed Rendell’s plan to lease or sell the Pennsylvania Turnpike in a public/private partnership. The Web site offers both sides of the issue and provides updated news and information from Pennsylvania and other states that are considering public/private partnerships or similar arrangements.
“Basically, the site is a great place to get a better understanding of the current transportation situation we’re faced with here in Pennsylvania,” Costa said. “Folks can look at funding alternatives, the possible lease of the turnpike, and in general the whole issue of public/private partnerships.”
Developed by House Transportation Committee Chairman Joseph Markosek, D-Allegheny/ Westmoreland, the site also includes a transportation survey for visitors to complete.
“We want feedback from citizens regarding the turnpike and other transportation issues,” Costa said. It’s important we hear from them so I and other members of the House Transportation Committee can use it in developing future legislation.”
The governor recently solicited plans from private companies to lease or purchase the turnpike to help solve the state’s transportation funding crisis. A private lease of the turnpike could generate as much as $965 million a year, which would be used for transportation funding purposes. Currently, 48 firms have expressed interest.
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