FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 9, 2007
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Legislators Met To Discuss Turnpike Revisions 

COLLEGEVILLE – Senator John Rafferty (R- Mont), Senator Connie Williams (D- Mont), Rep. Mike Gerber (D-Mont.), Rep. Kate Harper (R-Mont), and Rep. Jay Moyer (R-Mont) met with Turnpike Officials and Engineers on June 21, 2007 at the Whitpain Township Building. This was a follow up to the April 19, 2007 meeting to discuss the proposed changes to the Northeast Extension Project. Plymouth Township Councilmen Vince Gillen, Leo Bagley of the Montgomery County Planning Commission, representatives from PA Department of Environmental Protection, and Plymouth and Whitpain Township officials, were also in attendance at the meeting.

As the previous meeting's agenda was revisited, Turnpike Engineers presented their revised designs for the NE Extension Corridor, unveiling a design that significantly reduced the amount of complete and partial takes amongst the previously affected residential areas. The overall impact on the residents will be significantly reduced, though the designs are preliminary and subject to both PA Department of Environmental Protection and Municipal reviews.

The officials in attendance expressed a positive attitude towards the progress of designs as well as the significant reduction of the residential impact and the Turnpike's willingness to work along side the elected officials and other state agencies to ensure the future success of the transportation improvement project. Senator John Rafferty stated "Indications are the Turnpike Authority has heard our concerns and the concerns of the residents and has adapted their initial plans towards a proposal with the least amount of impact on neighboring residential properties." 

Senator Connie Williams stated after the meeting "Working as a Southeastern legislative delegation, and with the cooperation of the Turnpike Authority and local and county officials, my colleagues and I have identified and brought to the planning process the concerns of our constituents," Williams said. "In doing so, we have created the framework for a transportation improvement project that will add value to our transportation infrastructure while minimizing the impact on our constituents. The planning process is moving forward in a positive direction."

Rep. Mike Gerber added "I am encouraged by the process but will continue to keep the pressure on with my colleagues from the Legislature to ensure the Turnpike and DEP do their absolute best to accommodate our community." 

CONTACT: 

Chuck Mandracchia
(610) 831-8830