Pennsylvania Turnpike's $5.7 billion capital plan under review

[TexasTowelie]

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission’s decision last week to review all construction projects came two months after the majority of the five-member board approved a $5.7 billion, 10-year capital plan over the objections of the chairman and vice chairman.

The majority say that they were aware of potential financial shortfalls but the capital plan is a necessary working document that should be passed every two years and that it can adjusted as situations change. PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards, who is a member of the commission, said in a statement that a capital plan is important to bond-rating agencies.

“Rating agencies want to see that we are properly maintaining our asset,” she said. “… I am not surprised and expected us to take a look at future construction projects to see what may need to be deferred and that is exactly what we plan to do now.”

Board chairman Sean Logan, who with vice chairman William Lieberman voted against the plan, said he “couldn’t in good conscience” vote for the plan knowing the agency likely wouldn’t have the money to pay for all of the projects. The capital budget includes normal maintenance, highway widening work and new construction such as the Lafayette Street exit near Philadelphia and the Scranton beltway.

Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/news/transportation/2016/07/27/Pennsylvania-Turnpike-s-5-7-billion-capital-plan-under-review/stories/201607270034

[liberal N proud]

1. That ticket I got earlier this month should have helped

I got someone Elise's ticket because the cop said I was doing 90. I looked at him and said in a Jeep on these roads? He didn't write me a speeding ticket, but he did give me a Turnpike violation which was still expensive. I had 2 GPS devices running, one of which tracked my speed among other things. I topped 80 at one point but nothing more.

But much of that road does need some serious work. They have done some good things but others are insane.

[TexasTowelie]

2. I'm certain that the Turnpike Commission appreciates

your voluntary contribution.

Slow down and stay safe!

[Freddie]

3. PA does tend to have high fines

Visiting our son in Florida and accidentally went through an EZ-Pass lane (was not well marked IMO). Got the fine in the mail -- $3.82! Would have been at least $50 here.