April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

IN THIS ISSUE

Co-Sponsor Memos Bill Actions PA Bulletin Upcoming Events Session Schedule In the News

Co-Sponsor Memos

HCO2902 Knowles, Jerry Allows for internal light packages in fire chief vehicles.

HCO3007 Benninghoff, Kerry Limits expenditures and transfers from the Motor License Fund to the Pennsylvania State Police.

SCO1472 Williams, Anthony Upgrades the statutory class for the offense of operating an aircraft while under the influence of drugs or alcohol from a misdemeanor of the second class to a felony.

Bill Actions

HB 838 Santora, James (PN 2656) Act designating a bridge on that portion of Garrett Road over the Darby Creek, Upper Darby Township, Delaware County, as the Honorable Nicholas A. Micozzie Bridge; designating the section of Pennsylvania Route 849 in Newport, Perry County, as the United States Navy Petty Officer 1st Class A. Louis de Lancey Memorial Highway; designating the 700 to 800 block of US Route 13, also known as the Chester Pike, in Prospect Park Borough, Delaware County, as the Officers Luke Arlington Conner and J. Horace Callaghan Memorial Highway. Effective in 60 days. (Prior Printer Number: 1006, 2536)

Bill History: 03-16-16 H Signed in the House 03-17-16 S Signed in the Senate 03-17-16 G In the hands of the Governor 03-27-16 G Last day for Governor's action 03-25-16 G Approved by the Governor (Act: 9)

HB 1327 Peifer, Michael (PN 2969) Amends the Fiscal Code, in financially distressed municipalities, providing for financial recovery; in oil and gas wells, providing for the Environmental Stewardship Fund; in tax credits, providing for Department of Community and Economic Development; in special funds, further providing for funding, for State Workers' Insurance Board, for expiration and for other grants; in additional special funds, further providing for use of the Tobacco Settlement Fund and for distributions from the Pennsylvania Race Horse Development Fund and providing for miscellaneous limitations and transfers and for the Natural Gas Infrastructure Development Fund; in general budget implementation, further providing for the Department of Community and Economic Development, for the Department of Environmental Protection and for the Department of General Services, providing for the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, further providing for the Department of Human

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

Services, for the Pennsylvania State Police and for the Environmental Quality Board and providing for the Commonwealth Financing Authority; providing for school district debt refinancing bonds; providing for 2015-2016 budget implementation; making a related repeal; and making editorial changes. Effective immediately. (Prior Printer Number: 1788, 2650, 2694, 2697, 2697, 2711)

Bill History: 03-17-16 G In the hands of the Governor 03-27-16 G Last day for Governor's action 03-18-16 G Press conference held 03-23-16 G Press conference held 03-25-16 G Vetoed by the Governor (Veto: 1)

HB 1924 Knowles, Jerry (PN 3029) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in other required equipment, further providing for visual and audible signals on emergency vehicles by adding that the department may not prohibit the use of flashing or revolving lights mounted internally in the passenger compartment of fire department vehicles or privately owned vehicles used in answering an emergency call when used by a fire chief, assistant chief and, when a fire company has three or more fire vehicles, a second or third assistant chief. Effective in 60 days.

Bill History: 03-23-16 H Filed 03-24-16 H Introduced and referred to committee on House Transportation

HB 1936 Moul, Dan Amends the Public School Code, in pupils and attendance, further providing for when transportation of pupils provided.

Bill History: 03-31-16 H Filed

HB 1937 Moul, Dan Amends Title 75 (Vehicles), in registration of vehicles, further providing for person with disability plate and placard.

Bill History: 03-31-16 H Filed

SB 983 McGarrigle, Thomas (PN 1219) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) adding language to allow the parent, including an adoptive parent or foster parent, of a child or adult child who is in their care to secure a disability license plate for their vehicle. Effective in 60 days.

Bill History: 03-22-16 S Set on the Senate Calendar 03-22-16 Laid out for discussion 3:38pm 03-22-16 Third consideration 3:38pm 03-22-16 S Final Passage (Vote: Y: 48/N: 0) 03-24-16 H Received in the House and referred to House Transportation

SB 1064 Boscola, Lisa (PN 1402) Act transferring roads between Hanover Township, Lehigh County, and the Department of Transportation. Effective immediately.

Bill History: 03-22-16 S Signed in the Senate 03-23-16 H Signed in the House 03-23-16 G In the hands of the Governor 04-02-16 G Last day for Governor's action 03-30-16 G Approved by the Governor (Act: 11)

SB 1108 Scavello, Mario (PN 1503) Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) adding autocycles as a special designation under the definition of motorcycles and providing for their registration and titling. Stipulates that autocycles are to be operated with a motor vehicle license.

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

Includes other provisions related to seatbelt requirements, helmets and windshields. The amendment or addition of 75 Pa.C.S. 3752(a) and 3753(b)(7) are effective January 1, 2018; the remainder is effective in 60 days.

Bill History: 03-22-16 S Set on the Senate Calendar 03-22-16 Laid out for discussion 3:41pm 03-22-16 Third consideration 3:41pm 03-22-16 S Final Passage (Vote: Y: 48/N: 0) 03-24-16 H Received in the House and referred to House Transportation

SB 1123 Vogel, Jr., Elder (PN 1544) Amends Title 3 (Agriculture), in weights and measures, further providing for standards for automotive fuel by adding that a vapor pressure tolerance not exceeding one pound per square inch for ethanol blends of up to ten percent shall be allowed from September 16 through May 31. Effective in 60 days.

Bill History: 03-23-16 S Set on the Senate Calendar 03-23-16 Laid out for discussion 12:03pm 03-23-16 Third consideration 12:03pm 03-23-16 S Final Passage (Vote: Y: 48/N: 0) 03-24-16 H Received in the House and referred to House Agriculture and Rural Affairs

SB 1142 Yaw, Gene (PN 1598) Amends the Storage Tank and Spill Prevention Act further providing for Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Board by replacing the Middle Atlantic Truck Stop Operators with the Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association. Allocates four of the governor's eight appointees on the Underground Storage Indemnification Board, one each, to the President Pro Tempore, Speaker of the House, and the Senate and House Minority Leaders. Effective in 60 days. (Prior Printer Number: 1585)

Bill History: 03-21-16 S Set on the Senate Calendar 03-21-16 Laid out for discussion 4:04pm 03-21-16 Third consideration 4:04pm 03-21-16 S Final Passage (Vote: Y: 49/N: 0) 03-24-16 H Received in the House and referred to House Environmental Resources and Energy

SR 261 Folmer, Mike (PN 1501) Resolution urging the Congress of the United States for support a Passenger Facility Charges (PFC) increase for commercial airports controlled by public agencies.

Bill History: 03-16-16 S Voted favorably from committee on Senate Transportation 03-16-16 S Reported as committed from Senate Transportation 03-22-16 S Set on the Senate Calendar 03-22-16 S Adopted (Vote: Y: 45/N: 3) 03-28-16 G Transmitted as directed

PA Bulletin

GOVERNOR: PROCLAMATION TERMINATING THE STATE OF DISASTER EMERGENCY Gov. Tom Wolf issued a proclamation terminating the winter weather-related state of disaster emergency in the commonwealth.

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

DEP: AIR QUALITY TECHNICAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING CANCELLATION The Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 14, 2016, has been cancelled. The next Committee meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 9, 2016, at 9:15 a.m. in Room 105, Rachel Carson State Office Building, 400 Market Street, Harrisburg. For additional information contact Nancy Herb at (717) 783-9269 or nherb@pa.gov. PENNDOT: TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING The Transportation Advisory Committee will hold a meeting on Thursday, April 7, 2016, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Conference Room 8N1, Commonwealth Keystone Building, Harrisburg. For more information contact Ellen E. Sweeney, (717) 787-2913, ellsweeney@pa.gov.

Upcoming Events

Press Conference 4/5/2016 - 11:00 a.m., Keystone Building Atrium, 400 North Street, Harrisburg PennDOT & DOH Organ Donation (unconfirmed) Press Conference 4/5/2016 - 9:30 a.m., Main Capitol Rotunda, Harrisburg Rally for Road Safety (unconfirmed) PA Turnpike Commission April 5, 2016 - 9:00 a.m., Turnpike Admin. Bldg, Large Board Room, 700 S. Eisenhower Blvd., 3rd Fl., Middletown Commission Meeting. For additional information: (717) 831-7333 State Board of Vehicle Manufacturers, Dealers and Salespersons April 5, 2016 - 9:00 a.m., 2601 North Third Street, Harrisburg Board Meeting. For additional information: (717) 783-1697 PA State Transportation Advisory Committee April 7, 2016 - 10:00 a.m., Conference Room 8N1, 8th Floor, Commonwealth Keystone Building, 400 North Street, Harrisburg Committee Meeting. For additional information: (717) 787-2913 PA Public Utility Commission April 7, 2016 - 10:00 a.m., Commonwealth Keystone Building, Hearing Room 1, 400 North St., Harrisburg Public Meeting. For additional information: (717) 783-1740 Senate Democratic Policy Committee and Senate Republican Policy Committee 4/11/16, 10:30 a.m., Hearing Room 1, North Office Building Joint policy hearing on economic development and jobs in Pennsylvania House Gaming Oversight 4/11/16, 11:00 a.m., Room B31 Main Capitol Public hearing on: HB 469 Mustio, Mark Act re Pittsburgh Airport 50/50 raffle House Insurance and House Transportation 4/11/16, 11:00 a.m., Room 140 Main Capitol Joint public hearing on: HB 1258 Ellis, Brian Amends Title 75 re financial responsibility SB 928 White, Donald Amends Title 75 re financial responsibility

Session Schedule Senate April 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 May 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 June 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

House April 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 May 2, 3, 4, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 June 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

In the News

03-31-2016 Stateline Daily: Deadly Railroad Crossings Challenge States (Press Release)

03-31-2016 Amtrak Advancing WI-FI Technology

(Press Release) 03-31-2016 Brian O'Neill: The road complaints go on forever

If you think the stupidest stoplights and most ill-considered intersections covered in Wednesday’s column were as bad as things could get, you must be new in town. You’ll have to decide whether this sequel is that column’s equal, but I’m confident of this much: I’m barely scratching the asphalt.... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-31-2016 The PUC should settle up with Uber

By Audrey Russo As riders in southwestern Pennsylvania will attest, driving firms and services such as Uber and ZTrip have rapidly transformed the way people move in and around the Pittsburgh area. We can now travel to work-related destinations without parking anxiety, we... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-31-2016 Uber, Lyft shake up Pittsburgh's transportation system

William Buggs has been a cab driver for 13 years, but he might not make it to 14. The East McKeesport resident, 65, is a Yellow Cab driver who works mostly at Pittsburgh International Airport, but his business has declined since the airport authority allowed ride-sharing companies Uber and Lyft to start... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-31-2016 Repairs of Ohio River locks and dams stymied

A single signature is holding up a long-delayed $2.3 billion plan to repair three dilapidated locks and dams on the Ohio River. The Upper Ohio River Navigation project — in which new 600-by-110-foot locks would be built at the Emsworth, Dashields and Montgomery locks and... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-31-2016 Most vehicles' headlights underperform, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says

WASHINGTON — Are your car's headlights keeping you in the dark? .. - AP 03-31-2016 Christie: NJ Transit must close budget gap without fare hike

TRENTON, N.J. (AP) - Gov. Chris Christie says a new fare hike for New Jersey Transit commuters won't be happening this year... - AP

03-31-2016 Speed cameras touted as lifesavers in Pa.

Last week I attended a conference that looked at speed cameras as a tool that could help in the city’s Vision Zero efforts, an initiative to reduce traffic-related accidents and deaths in the city. Philadelphia has among the worst rates of car crashes in comparison to other large cities.... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-31-2016 Insurer told to pay Luzerne County ‘ghost rider’ defense

WILKES-BARRE — A federal judge on Wednesday ordered the Luzerne County Transportation Authority’s insurance company to pay up to a total of $150,000 for the legal defense of two executives charged in the “ghost rider” scandal. Allied World Specialty Insurance Co., formerly Darwin National Assurance... - Scranton Times

03-31-2016 Scranton board awards no-bid bus contract to DeNaples

Despite criticism from the state and demands by many to bid the district’s busing contract, the Scranton School Board voted Tuesday to extend an agreement with DeNaples Transportation through 2021-22. In a 6-3 vote, a majority of directors cited savings offered in the new... - Scranton Times

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

03-31-2016 Transparency under bus School boards aren’t supposed to embrace ignorance. Yet a six-member majority of Scranton’s board did so Monday by blithely approving a long-term extension of a busing contract without seeking bids. The board voted 6-3 to extend the existing unbid contract with DeNaples... - Scranton Times

03-31-2016 Judge: LCTA’s insurance company must pay for legal defense

WILKES-BARRE — A federal judge on Wednesday ordered the Luzerne County Transportation Authority’s insurance company to pay up to a total of $150,000 for the legal defense of two executives charged in the “ghost rider” scandal. Allied World Specialty Insurance Co., formerly Darwin National Assurance... - Wilkes-Barre Citizens' Voice

03-31-2016 Reading Parking Authority responds to critical report

The authority says Baker Tilly's preliminary report contains inaccuracies. But the authority might still hire the firm to do a forensic audit. Reading Eagle: Tim Leedy | The Reading Parking Authority said a critical report from the Baker Tilly accounting firm contains some inaccuracies. The... - Reading Eagle

03-31-2016 The Lehigh Valley's busiest roads (besides Rt. 22 and I-78)

No surprise: Rt. 22 and I-78 top list Let’s get the obvious ones out of the way: more vehicles travel Route 22 and Interstate 78 each day than any other roads that crosses through the Lehigh Valley. That’s according to Pennsylvania Department of Transportation traffic... - Easton Express-Times

03-31-2016 Speed limit on turnpike to increase to 70 mph in most areas; interstates could follow suit

More than 300 miles of the Pennsylvania Turnpike will soon switch to a speed limit of 70 mph, and more than 1,000 miles of state-owned interstates across Pennsylvania could soon follow. The turnpike commission earlier this month voted to increase the speed limit from 65 mph to 70 mph on the turnpike, although areas that currently... - Beaver County Times

03-31-2016 Morganza Road project plans detailed

CANONSBURG – Motorists frustrated with long waits to turn left onto Morganza Road will have less of a headache by fall 2017 as state transportation officials laid out final plans Wednesday to help with the congested intersection. The roughly $1.5 million project to widen lanes and give motorists a... - Washington Observer-Reporter

03-31-2016 I-83 Shrewsbury exit: 3 things to know about changes

More than 120 people turned out to review the proposal on Wednesday night With growth in the Shrewsbury area over the years, the Interstate 83 interchange at Exit 4 needs to be redone. More than 120 citizens and two dozen public officials attended an open house at the Shrewsbury Volunteer Fire Company on Wednesday evening to... - York Daily

03-31-2016 I-180 construction will cause delays, closures

The state Department of Transportation has two Interstate 180 projects that have begun in the city and Fairfield Township and both projects will cause traffic delays and lane closures. - Williamsport Sun-Gazette

03-31-2016 PennDOT announces Bradford County maintenance activity

PennDOT’s maintenance schedule for the week of April 4 includes: SR 2016: River Road, Standing Stone Township, deck replacement SR2007: Wilmot Road, Wilmot Township, replacing pipe SR1029: Lake Road, Wysox Township, replacing pipe SR3008: Southside Road, Canton, Leroy and Franklin... - Towanda Daily Review

03-31-2016 Mild winter was worth its salt

With only one real winter storm blowing through the Valley, road crews did not use nearly what they used last year to clear the streets and highways. Sunbury City Councilman Dale Henry, who oversees the street department, said the city normally uses 400 tons of road salt in a winter.... - Sunbury Daily Item

03-31-2016 Take a stand in Northumberland

As a former resident of Northumberland (and Duke Street), and as a former reviewer of Environmental Impact Statements for PennDOT projects, I cannot fathom what is going on in the PennDOT. The noise and dust will be severe, as well as the carbon monoxide and... - Sunbury Daily Item

03-31-2016 Northumberland, PennDOT officials stand firm on need for $12M road project

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

NORTHUMBERLAND — Major road reconstruction and repaving work paid for by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation “is needed in Northumberland,” the Borough Council president and the lead engineer for the project said Wednesday afternoon, less than 24 hours after more... - Sunbury Daily Item

03-31-2016 New bridge program between PennDOT, local governments could save significant money

VERNON TOWNSHIP — A new collaborative program between the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and local governments to replace structurally deficient municipal bridges can save local governments significant money. PennDOT and Sparta Township are working together now on a first-of-its-kind... - Meadville Tribune

03-31-2016 Route 31 project begins

Contractor CH&D Enterprises of New Stanton began the Route 31 west corridor improvement project on Wednesday. Work consists of the widening and overlay of Route 31 along with the realignment of township Route 453 (West Ridge Road). The work includes the replacement of an arch culvert with a box... - Somerset Daily

03-31-2016 Lengthy Shutdowns in Washington, D.C., Metro System Are Possible

Repairs to Washington’s aging subway could require the closure of entire rail lines for months at a time, the system’s chairman, Jack Evans, said Wednesday. At the very least, Mr. Evans said, riders should expect the closure of segments of individual lines for extended periods.... - New York Times

03-31-2016 Amazon Widens Its Push-Button E-Commerce Horizons

SEATTLE — Aaron Horn, an information technology director for the Iowa Interstate Railroad, recently decided to take convenience in his home to the next level. Instead of running out to the store whenever he and his family needed Tide laundry soap, he installed a wireless button on the back of a cabinet door... - New York Times

03-31-2016 Car-Pooling Helps Uber Go the Extra Mile

One day not long ago, an Uber driver picked up a passenger in San Francisco’s gritty Tenderloin district. Let’s call our passenger Abby, because her real name has been lost to database anonymization, an effort to keep her identity private. Abby needed to go to Noe Valley, a 25-minute drive that might ordinarily... - New York Times

03-31-2016 General Motors Ignition Switch Is Cleared in Trial Over a Crash

General Motors won a second consecutive case in litigation over its defective ignition switches, when a New York jury on Wednesday found that a faulty switch was not responsible for a 2014 accident that injured two people. The jury in the United States District Court in Manhattan returned the... - New York Times

03-31-2016 Maryland is finally getting serious about drunk drivers

Montgomery County Police Officer Noah Leotta, who died after being struck by a suspected drunk driver in December. (Courtesy of Noah Leotta’s family) OVER THE better part of a decade, Democrats who run Maryland’s House of Delegates have gradually been pushed to get tougher with drunk drivers,... - Washington Post

03-31-2016 Metro could shut down entire rail lines to do extended maintenance, board chair says

Metro’s top officials warned Wednesday that the transit system is in such need of repair that they might shut down entire rail lines for as long as six months for maintenance, potentially snarling thousands of daily commutes and worsening congestion in the already traffic-clogged region.... - Washington Post

03-31-2016 EDITORIAL: Sharing is rule of the road for bicyclists

“Share: To use, occupy or enjoy something jointly with others.” The definition of sharing was the inspiration for Pennsylvania’s bicycle safety law adopted in 2012. It also illustrates the challenge of motorists sharing space on already-crowded streets and highways with bicycles as more people turn to... - Pottstown Mercury

03-31-2016 Last-minute voter registrations swamp Bucks, Montgomery

Workers in the voter registration offices in both Bucks and Montgomery counties Wednesday scrambled to process thousands of applications that came in Monday, the last day to register for the April 26 primary election. Both Bucks County Election Board Director Deena Dean and Montgomery County... - Levittown Bucks County Courier Times

April 1, 2016

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03-31-2016 Multiple DUIs are serious issue

March 31, 2016 How many DUIs does a man have to get before the DUI judge in Blair County takes away his license and locks him up either in jail or rehab for more than a few days? Is the judge waiting for him to... more »» - Altoona Mirror

03-31-2016 CNG public station has come and gone in Blair

March 31, 2016 Most area residents are probably unaware, but even if plans for the compressed natural gas filling station that will be built for Amtran in 2017 would have included public access, it wouldn’t have... more »» - Altoona Mirror

03-31-2016 Hyndman train problem solved

March 31, 2016 Hyndman residents may no longer face frequent stops and detours, with government officials finishing a deal to keep stopped CSX trains from blocking borough street. more »» - Altoona Mirror

03-31-2016 Donut Hole Trail section relocated; to be featured in Prowl the Sproul

March 31, 2016 By JESSICA WELSHANS For The Express KETTLE CREEK — Built back in the ‘70s, the Donut Hole Trail is located north from Bucktail State Park through Kettle Creek State Park towards Tamarack, according... more »» - Lock Haven Express

03-31-2016 PennDOT updates public on construction projects

Motorists driving through Indiana County in the coming months will encounter several road, highway and bridge improvement and construction projects. The most dramatic changes will be obvious at a pair of major construction jobs about one mile apart on Route 119 in Rayne Township.... - Indiana Gazette

03-31-2016 Speed limit on turnpike to increase to 70 mph in most areas; interstates could follow suit

More than 300 miles of the Pennsylvania Turnpike will soon switch to a speed limit of 70 mph, and more than 1,000 miles of state-owned interstates across Pennsylvania could soon follow. The turnpike commission earlier this month voted to increase the speed limit from 65 mph to 70 mph on the turnpike, although areas that currently... - Ellwood City Ledger

03-31-2016 Harrisburg Environmental Advisory Council collapses under 'dysfunction'

HARRISBURG- The majority of Harrisburg's Environmental Advisory Council, including the chairwoman, abruptly quit this week because of the group's "dysfunctional atmosphere," according to a joint resignation letter. Chairwoman Rusty Diamond, and members Pat Buckley and Ted Fridirici said... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-31-2016 Rail safety is everyone’s business

It’s the time of year for people to be taking to walking paths to enjoy the weather, or snapping photos to mark major life events. During those activities, the area’s abundant railroad tracks may seem like an attractive alternative for a stroll, or a nice backdrop for a... - Bradford Era

03-31-2016 Negligence suit by pedestrian versus railroad dismissed by Superior Court

The state Superior Court has upheld an Elk County judge’s decision throwing out negligence claims in a suit filed by the mother of a 7-year-old girl struck and severely injured by a train in Johnsonburg in 2004. The child, Destiny Gresart, had been walking down the railroad tracks near... - Bradford Era

03-31-2016 CNG fueling station slated

BUTLER TWP — The Butler Transit Authority will have a compressed natural gas fueling station by 2019. “We’re very excited that this is moving forward, and PennDOT’s done an excellent job in securing this bid across the commonwealth to provide these stations,” said John Paul, executive director of the... - Butler Eagle

03-31-2016 Ask/answered: DUI cases in 2016

Asked/Answered is a weekly feature for reader-submitted questions. Follow the blog online at www.cumberlink.com: How many people have been charged with DUI so far this year and how does that compare to last year? Cumberland County courts could be on track to see more DUI cases in 2016... - Carlisle Sentinel

03-31-2016 Fire crews extinguish tar buggy fire at PennDOT facility in Middlesex

April 1, 2016

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A tar buggy at the Cumberland County PennDOT facility located off Army Heritage Drive in Middlesex Township caught fire Thursday morning, sending black smoke into the skies. Fire crews were able to extinguish the fire in a matter of minutes. Doug Tosten, the equipment manager at the facility, said the tar buggy was... - Carlisle Sentinel

03-31-2016 A tale of two winters

This year's winter contrasts the previous, municipalities react in different ways. For some local municipalities, the winter of 2015-16 was mild enough to allow for excess salt stores and funds budgeted for snow-related issues. However, Carlisle is not one of those municipalities.... - Carlisle Sentinel

03-31-2016 Uber raises fares in Pittsburgh 10 percent

Uber is raising prices for its rides in Pittsburgh by 10 percent, it announced to users on Thursday afternoon. The company has previously lowered fares, which are calculated with a per-minute and per-mile formula, but said it would increase them if drivers weren't taking home more earnings.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-30-2016 Gov. Wolf Enacts Boscola's Road Transfer Bill

(Press Release) 03-30-2016 Round-Up: PennDOT Selects Team for Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Stations...

(Press Release) 03-30-2016 Governor Wolf Signs SB 1064 Into Law

(Press Release) 03-30-2016 Banking and Securities Department Provides Update on Consumer Financial...

(Press Release) 03-30-2016 Stateline Daily: As Water Infrastructure Crumbles, Many Cities Seek Private Help

(Press Release) 03-30-2016 Banking and Securities Secretary Provides Department Update

(Around the Capital) 03-30-2016 Consumer Reports unveils top 10 lowest-rated vehicles

Choosing a new car is a little like picking a good restaurant: It helps to narrow the field by knowing the ones to avoid. To help steer car buyers in the right direction, Consumer Reports recently released its top picks for the worst vehicles to drive off the lot in 2016.... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-30-2016 Pittsburgh Mayor Peduto in San Diego to pursue Smart City Challenge grant

In pursuit of a $50 million technology grant, Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto traveled to Austin, Texas, earlier this month and will spend the rest of this week in San Diego. “It’s an extremely important grant that the city is trying to get from the [U.S.] Department of Transportation, so if it takes going out to... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-30-2016 Brian O'Neill: For smart traffic, fix these dumb spots

You don’t have to ask Pittsburghers twice to name the Stupidest Stoplights and Most Ill-Considered Intersections in this small town that plays a big city on TV. After I asked readers to name the dumbest traffic designs in a March 16 column, emails and online comments flooded in like rush-hour traffic on the... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-30-2016 West Newton first responder to be inducted to National Fallen Firefighters Memorial

Patrick Nader would have turned 29 on Friday. The West Newton firefighter died unexpectedly slightly more than three years ago, but his loved ones still celebrate his birthday. “We always get together with some of his friends, go out and have dinner and smoke a cigar for him,” said his father, Joseph.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-30-2016 Pilot arrested for intoxication identifed as Chadds Ford man

The American Airlines copilot accused of being intoxicated before a scheduled flight to Philadelphia from

April 1, 2016

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Detroit on Saturday is from Chadds Ford, the Wayne County, Mich., Prosecutor's Office said Tuesday. John Francis Maguire, 50, has been charged with a misdemeanor crime of... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-30-2016 ISIS hackers target NJ Transit police

NJ Transit police officers were targeted by hackers associated with the ISIS terror group who encouraged supporters to carry out "lone wolf" attacks on the officers, a report said. Caliphate Cyber Army, formerly known as the Islamic Cyber Army, recently posted personal details about 55... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-30-2016 Truck explodes at toll booth; jams traffic

A tractor-trailer burst into flames along the Pennsylvania Turnpike Tuesday morning after crashing near an empty toll plaza at the Old Delaware River Bridge Interchange in Bucks County, creating a mammoth traffic jam that persisted into the afternoon. No injuries were reported.... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-30-2016 NJ Transit opens new bus plaza at Secaucus Junction

SECAUCUS, N.J. (AP) - New Jersey Transit is opening a new bus plaza at Secaucus Junction that's designed to keep passengers more comfortable and safe... - AP

03-30-2016 Route 22/322 will close lanes as part of a solution to keep traffic moving

Only one lane will be open on Route 22/322 near Dauphin Borough for the next two weekends. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will keep one eastbound and one westbound lane open between the off-ramp to Front Street in Middle Paxton Township and Route 443 and Dauphin Borough. The lanes will be closed... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-30-2016 Navy's Blue Angels to take off at Pocono Raceway as LVIA forgoes airshow

HANOVER TOWNSHIP, LEHIGH COUNTY — Roadwork has grounded Lehigh Valley International Airport's popular air show for a second year in a row, but fans can catch the Navy's Blue Angels at Pocono Raceway in August. Airport officials confirmed Tuesday the late-summer air show, known to... - Allentown Morning Call

03-30-2016 Airport Authority extends its charter, but will counties agree?

HANOVER TOWNSHIP, LEHIGH COUNTY —The Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority board voted to extend its life through at least 2051 Tuesday, in a compromise authority board members hope will be endorsed by Lehigh and Northampton counties. After months of sometimes-contentious discussions with county officials... - Allentown Morning Call

03-30-2016 Fund, fix transportation, water infrastructure

By Ed Mortimer What elements of U.S. infrastructure need attention the most? How should we pay for it? Before we discuss possible solutions, let’s go back and look at what brought us to this discussion. For almost 100 years, America’s infrastructure has been the envy of the... - Scranton Times

03-30-2016 Central Scranton Expressway to close for a weekend

The Central Scranton Expressway will close for the April 8 weekend so crews can safely install safeguards to limit the chances of more wrong-way drivers on Interstate 81. They will install flexible posts to delineate the inbound and outbound lanes created as part of the Harrison Avenue Bridge project and repave... - Scranton Times

03-30-2016 Scranton board awards no-bid bus contract to DeNaples

Despite criticism from the state and demands by many to bid the district’s busing contract, the Scranton School Board voted Tuesday to extend an agreement with DeNaples Transportation through 2021-22. In a 6-3 vote, a majority of directors cited savings offered in the new... - Scranton Times

03-30-2016 Official: Erie transit authority charter dispute could jeopardize millions in funding

ERIE, Pa. -- The ongoing dispute between the city of Erie and Erie County over the Erie Metropolitan Transit Authority's operating charter could jeopardize at least $13 million in funding for the region's largest public transit company. Mike Tann, EMTA's executive director, said that he and EMTA board members... - Erie Times-News

03-30-2016 Transit authorities to receive compressed natural gas fueling stations; half of Beaver County fleet

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

to convert CENTER TWP. -- The Beaver County Transit Authority is one of 29 agencies across the state that will receive compressed natural gas fueling stations as part of a public-private partnership administered by PennDOT. In addition, the CNG station installed here will be only one of seven... - Beaver County Times

03-30-2016 Changes in traffic patterns to begin on I-70 near Murtland

Drivers traveling Interstate 70 near Murtland Avenue in South Strabane Township will start to see changes in traffic patterns next week as crews prepare to switch the westbound lanes to travel on the eastbound side this construction season. The eastbound lanes will shift to the right Tuesday morning, said Scott... - Washington Observer-Reporter

03-30-2016 United Mine Workers to rally at Greene County Fairgrounds

WAYNESBURG – The United Mine Workers will hold a “solidarity” rally Friday at the Greene County Fairgrounds to address a variety of issues, including action taken in bankruptcy court this week by Alpha Natural Resources to reject the union contract for miners at the... - Washington Observer-Reporter

03-30-2016 Rabbittransit seeks inclusion grant

Rabbittransit could receive up to $86,000 if it is awarded a grant Rabbittransit has applied for a grant that would expand inclusion of older adults and people with disabilities in designing public transportation systems, according to a news release. The initiative is known as Transit Planning4All. Funding of up to $86,000... - York Daily

03-30-2016 250 crowd meeting about Northumberland street project

NORTHUMBERLAND — A crush of more than 250 residents Tuesday night filled the municipal building’s council room, spilling out into the hallway and into the adjacent kitchen, all to hear — and in many cases protest — the proposed Pennsylvania Department of Transportation plan... - Sunbury Daily Item

03-30-2016 Take a stand in Northumberland

As a former resident of Northumberland (and Duke Street), and as a former reviewer of Environmental Impact Statements for PennDOT projects, I cannot fathom what is going on in the PennDOT. The noise and dust will be severe, as well as the carbon monoxide and... - Sunbury Daily Item

03-30-2016 ADI will offer flights between Youngstown, Chicago

VIENNA – Beginning May 30, Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport in Vienna will offer direct, daily flights to Chicago. The airport will start out with 10 weekly round-trip flights – one to two daily – and can potentially work up to three daily round-trip flights depending on usage.... - Sharon Herald

03-30-2016 Johnstown teens speak out about distracted driving

Recently, The Tribune-Democrat asked students in ninth through 12th grades to write opinion pieces pointing out the dangers of texting and driving. Here are the submissions. Distracted driving According to “Distracted Driving: Teens,” (www.distraction.gov/ take-action/teens), teenagers are the leading cause of traffic crashes.... - Johnstown Tribune-Democrat

03-30-2016 PennDOT lays out plans for Route 281 improvements in Somerset County

SOMERSET – Route 281 is getting a nearly 9-mile upgrade, and many of the 20 or so property owners who attended a public meeting Tuesday in Friedens said they are relieved to see the change. The project, which PennDOT estimates will cost around $6.8 million, is to... - Johnstown Tribune-Democrat

03-30-2016 Johnstown teens speak out about distracted driving

Recently, The Tribune-Democrat asked students in ninth through 12th grades to write opinion pieces pointing out the dangers of texting and driving. Here are the submissions. Distracted driving According to “Distracted Driving: Teens,” (www.distraction.gov/ take-action/teens), teenagers are the leading cause of traffic crashes.... - Johnstown Tribune-Democrat

03-30-2016 Lebanon Transit to receive Compressed Natural Gas fueling station

LT's CNG fueling station will be one of 29 built at transit authorities across the state Lebanon Transit is one of 29 public transit authorities across the state that will have a Compressed Natural Gas fueling station built under a Public-Private contract with PennDOT.... - Lebanon Daily News

03-30-2016 Car-Pooling Helps Uber Go the Extra Mile

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

Here’s another way to put it: UberPool may push us to re-evaluate how we think about Uber and its impact on the world. The car service has long been polarizing. Though Uber is beloved by many riders, the way it has muscled into cities and the public consciousness,... - New York Times

03-30-2016 Strike is back on for U.S. airport workers seeking higher pay, job protections

New York and Washington stepped up security in the wake of the attacks in Brussels on March 22, deploying counter-terrorism reinforcements and the National Guard to airports and stations, officials said. Airport workers also cancelled a labor strike planned last week. ( Jim Watson/AFP/Getty... - Washington Post

03-30-2016 More affordable transportation

Natural gas drilling operations in Pennsylvania are leading to transportation benefits across the state. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Trillium CNG of Salt Lake City, Utah, have entered into a 20-year agreement to create a network of 29 compressed natural gas, or CNG, fueling stations at public transit... - Somerset Daily

03-30-2016 Hundreds gather to ‘Stop the DOT’

NORTHUMBERLAND — Fears that an $11 million PennDOT plan to reconstruct Routes 11 and 147 though Northumberland Borough will put people in danger and businesses in hock drew more than 250 citizens to a special meeting Tuesday night. Neither PennDOT, commercial truckers, gas companies nor Gov. Tom Wolf... - Milton Standard

03-30-2016 Piper Airport: The impact goes well beyond dollars

W e've patiently waited to see reactions to comments that the historic William T. Piper Memorial Airport in Lock Haven benefits only a few, and that the city's investment in the airport is a losing proposition. - Lock Haven Express

03-30-2016 Yellow Creek State Park to begin trail workon March 30, 2016 10:40 AM

Yellow Creek State Park will be holding its annual spring thaw trail work day from 10 a.m. to mid-afternoon on Saturday. Volunteers should meet at the park day use area and bring gloves, some snacks and drinks and a favorite trail maintenance tool, such as a rake,... - Indiana Gazette

03-30-2016 Future of Transit Center property up in the air

Future of Transit Center property up in the air - Gettysburg Times 03-30-2016 PUC shuts down Blue & White taxi

The state Public Utility Commission has suspended the operating license of Blue & White taxi for failing to comply with an order based on violations that include inadequate tire tread, improperly charging a flat fare and failure to document insurance coverage.... - Altoona Mirror

03-30-2016 Rabbit Transit receiving natural gas fueling station

York County's Rabbit Transit facility will be one of the first of 29 transit hubs in the state to receive a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling station — and one of only seven that will be accessible to the public. PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards announced Monday that Trillium CNG team... - York Dispatch

03-30-2016 York woman leads growing engineering firm

Lea Nadler ran her engineering firm solo for two years, but it's her ability to bring people together that has Susquehanna Civil Inc. on the rise. Nadler started the business in her Red Lion basement in 2008, merged with Pinto Engineering in 2010 and will receive the York County Economic... - York Dispatch

03-30-2016 Rabbit Transit receiving natural gas fueling station

York County's Rabbit Transit facility will be one of the first of 29 transit hubs in the state to receive a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fueling station — and one of only seven that will be accessible to the public. PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards announced Monday that Trillium CNG team... - York Dispatch

03-29-2016 Taylor Wants an Investigation on the Proper Use of the Motor License Fund

(Press Release) 03-29-2016 No surprises on first day of T construction project in Beechview

The first day of a Port Authority construction project that is expected to affect thousands of T riders daily

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

over the next six months appeared to go off without a hitch Monday. “Everything I heard — obviously there are going to be bumps in the road — for the most part our customer service department noticed no... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-29-2016 Uber's growth linked to drop in DUI arrests, upset in taxi market

Smartphone-based car companies have transformed the way Pittsburgh residents make their way around the city — especially when they've been drinking. New data from Uber shared with the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review show the service's popularity peaks at closing time, when many intoxicated patrons... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-29-2016 $5.2M loan to prime development near Pittsburgh International Airport

A regional financing initiative made a $5.7 million loan to the Allegheny County Airport Authority to support developments in the Clinton Commerce Park in Findlay. The Power of 32 Site Development Fund Partners made the loan to cover infrastructure improvements at the site including storm water management,... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-29-2016 Port Authority helps riders on 1st day of Red Line closure

Port Authority of Allegheny County sent customer service agents Monday to five closed light-rail stations to guide passengers through the first morning commute of a six-month closure of Pittsburgh's Red Line. “We realize it's a big change and people are going to have... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-29-2016 Fueling station opens doors for new transit era in Pa.

The Westmoreland County Transit Authority uses 22,000 to 23,000 gallons of diesel fuel a month to power its fleet of 41 buses. As a cleaner, cheaper alternative, executive director Alan Blahovec has wanted to invest in buses that run on compressed natural gas — but there was nowhere to fuel... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-29-2016 Fueling station opens doors for new transit era in Pa.

The Westmoreland County Transit Authority uses 22,000 to 23,000 gallons of diesel fuel a month to power its fleet of 41 buses. As a cleaner, cheaper alternative, executive director Alan Blahovec has wanted to invest in buses that run on compressed natural gas — but there was nowhere to fuel... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-29-2016 New SEPTA bus services planned for city and burbs

A branded bus line for Roosevelt Boulevard. Direct bus service to University City from two neighborhoods that lack it now. Easier access to Wayne Junction Station. Open houses held Monday introduced four proposals from SEPTA that could make some big changes in the city’s bus service... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-29-2016 Byko: Will SEPTA Key's arrival be a token gesture?

EVERYTHING THAT's old is new again. I'm talking about SEPTA senior passes, not necessarily the people who use them. Like me. In April of last year, Newsworks reported that SEPTA would not accept driver's licenses as proof of age for seniors, while it did accept Social... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-29-2016 Ex-SEPTA cop guilty of false arrest of nurse

A Philadelphia jury returned a split verdict Monday in the trial of a former SEPTA police officer accused of roughing up and falsely arresting a nurse after a Christmas 2013 argument in a Suburban Station doughnut shop. The Common Pleas Court jury of six men and six women deliberated about two... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-29-2016 Heidi Cruz cancels South Jersey visit

Heidi Cruz cancels South Jersey visit Heidi Cruz, wife of GOP presidential hopeful Sen. Ted Cruz, has canceled a campaign appearance set for Tuesday in Haddon Heights. Scot DeCristofaro, a spokesman for the Cruz campaign in New Jersey, said the senator and his wife had decided to campaign together in Wisconsin,... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-29-2016 Jet Blue, Alaska show interest in Virgin America

Virgin America, California's hip and high-tech airline, is exploring the sale of all or part of its business, and JetBlue and Alaska airlines are reportedly in talks to buy the carrier, according to Bloomberg News, citing people familiar with situation. JetBlue has seven daily flights from Philadelphia International Airport,... - Philadelphia Inquirer

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

03-29-2016 Taxi, Uber Black drivers threaten to boycott Democratic National Convention Taxi, limo and Uber Black drivers plan on boycotting the Democratic National Convention if the city does not address Lyft and UberX services operating illegally in the city since 2014. In a release sent out Monday, the Philadelphia Limousine Association, in conjunction with the Philadelphia Cab Association, said drivers would... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-29-2016 'Intoxicated' Pa. commercial pilot is charged

The 50-year-old American Airlines co-pilot was grounded last week after allegedly smelling of alcohol before takeoff in Detroit on a Philadelphia-bound flight that had to be cancelled. intoxicated-PA-pilot-charged-John-Maguire.PNGAmerican Airlines co-pilot John Maguire, 50, of Chadds Ford, Pa.police photo... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-29-2016 Valley transportation planners make room for bikers and walkers

After a half century of dominating the Lehigh Valley's transportation planning, it is time that cars and trucks move over to make way for bikes and pedestrians. That's the decision by a Lehigh Valley Transportation Study that for the first time Monday passed a two-year plan that carves out time and money for... - Allentown Morning Call

03-29-2016 Philadelphia taxi, Uber Black drivers threaten DNC boycott

PHILADELPHIA Taxi, limo and Uber Black drivers are threatening to boycott the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia this summer unless lawmakers address Lyft and UberX services that have been operating illegally in the city since 2014... - AP

03-29-2016 Philadelphia-area transit agency projects no fare hike

PHILADELPHIA The Philadelphia-area transit agency's proposed new budget includes no fare increase for the period running through the middle of next year... - AP

03-29-2016 Express train service to aid Pennsylvania-Delaware commuters

WILMINGTON, Del. (AP) — Pennsylvania residents who work in Delaware will soon have an easier commute home... - AP

03-29-2016 Valley transportation planners make room for bikers and walkers

After a half century of dominating the Lehigh Valley's transportation planning, it is time that cars and trucks move over to make way for bikes and pedestrians. That's the decision by a Lehigh Valley Transportation Study that for the first time Monday passed a two-year plan that carves out time and money for... - Allentown Morning Call

03-29-2016 PennDOT contract could lead to natural gas fueling stations for LANTA

LANTA's two bus depots are included in a list of statewide mass transit systems that could help move more natural gas-powered vehicles on the road, under a contract the state announced Monday. PennDOT said it awarded a 20-year, $84.5 million contract to Trillium of... - Allentown Morning Call

03-29-2016 COLTS, LCTA to get natural gas stations

The public bus services in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties are scheduled to get compressed natural gas stations next year to fuel buses. Citizens will also be able to buy natural gas for their vehicles at the County of Lackawanna Transit System’s station at its headquarters off... - Wilkes-Barre Citizens' Voice

03-29-2016 COLTS, LCTA to get natural gas stations

The public bus services in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties are scheduled to get compressed natural gas stations next year to fuel buses. Citizens will also be able to buy natural gas for their vehicles at the County of Lackawanna Transit System’s station at its headquarters off... - Scranton Times

03-29-2016 Partnership to build compressed natural gas fueling stations

ERIE, Pa. -- Buses fueled by compressed natural gas will be able to fill their tanks at 29 new fueling stations statewide. The stations, including one in Erie and another in Meadville, will be designed, built, financed, operated and maintained at public transit... - Erie Times-News

03-29-2016 Public meeting to address motorcycle safety on Erie area roads

The Erie County Motorcycle Safety Task Force will hold a community meeting on highway safety today at the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 W. 38th St. A motorcycle crash survivor and

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

representatives of UPMC Hamot, the Erie County Coroner's Office and EmergyCare will address the public during the... - Erie Times-News

03-29-2016 PennDOT selects team for compressed natural gas fueling stations Public-Private Partnership

JOHNSTOWN, Pa. — Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) Secretary Leslie S. Richards has announced at a media event that the Trillium CNG team, which includes Larson Design Group of Williamsport, has been selected for the department’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transit... - Towanda Daily Review

03-29-2016 'This is the future': CamTran to launch state's natural gas switch

An $84 million initiative to convert the state's public transit systems to compressed natural gas vehicles will launch this year – with its first fueling station in Johnstown, officials announced Monday. "This is going to be huge," state Sen. John Wozniak said with hands raised,... - Johnstown Tribune-Democrat

03-29-2016 Bikers urged to sign up for free safety courses

Many individuals in Greater Johnstown will make the decision this year to buy motorcycles or upgrade their existing units. What they also should decide to do is take a free training course through the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program. Classes are available for beginning riders, licensed motorcyclists and... - Johnstown Tribune-Democrat

03-29-2016 State expanding plow truck painting campaign

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation District 9 is expanding its Paint the Plow initiative, which made its debut last year in Cambria County as a pilot program. As part of the program students in high schools and career technical schools decoratively paint a PennDOT plow blade. The... - Somerset Daily

03-29-2016 PennDOT announces agreement to build 29 natural gas fueling stations

JOHNSTOWN — A 20-year agreement announced on Monday between the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Trillium CNG of Salt Lake City, Utah, will create a network of 29 compressed natural gas, or CNG, fueling stations at public transit agencies. They will be built in the state over the next five years.... - Somerset Daily

03-29-2016 Your Tuesday Briefing: EgyptAir, Pakistan, iPhone

(Want to get this briefing by email? Here’s the sign-up.) Good morning. Here’s what you need to know: • Hijacked jet lands in Cyprus. All of the passengers on board an EgyptAir flight that was hijacked today en route to Cairo from Alexandria have been released.... - New York Times

03-29-2016 Nafta May Have Saved Many Autoworkers’ Jobs

When Donald Trump threatened to “break” the North American Free Trade Agreement, auto industry workers offered up some of the loudest cheers. Mr. Trump easily won the Republican primary in Michigan this month. The state, home base for the American auto industry, also delivered an upset... - New York Times

03-29-2016 Maryland Senate OKs 'Noah's Law'

The Maryland Senate on Monday overwhelmingly approved Noah's Law, which expands the use of ignition interlocks for drunk drivers. The 45-0 vote came without debate. The House of Delegates passed a different version of the bill earlier this month, likely setting up a... - Baltimore Sun

03-29-2016 SEPTA budget will not include fare hike

PHILADELPHIA >> The Philadelphia-area transit agency’s proposed new budget includes no fare increase for the period running through the middle of next year... - AP

03-29-2016 Editorial: Case for ignition interlock devices is strong

No one needs to explain the horrors of driving under the influence to the Hannagan family. The Chester County family – like so many others in Delaware County and across Pennsylvania – has lived the nightmare first hand. What someone probably does need to explain to them is why a common-sense... - Primos Delaware County Daily and Sunday Times

03-29-2016 Compressed natural gas filling station planned for Saint Clair

SAINT CLAIR — Schuylkill Transportation System is getting its own compressed natural gas filling station. The state Department of Transportation Secretary Leslie S. Richards announced Monday that the

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

Trillium CNG, which includes Larson Design Group in Williamsport, has been selected for the department’s Public-Private... - Pottsville Republican and Evening Herald

03-29-2016 Union supervisors hear Schuylkill River Trail pedestrian bridge options

The Schuylkill River Heritage Area is looking to install an overhead 115-foot pedestrian bridge to carry trail users over a hazardous crossing at Route 724 in Monocacy. The crossing is a part of the Thun Section of the Schuylkill River Trail. Bob Folwell, trails manager for the Heritage Area, presented the proposed... - Pottstown Mercury

03-29-2016 Traffic Stopped On PA Turnpike At Del. Valley Interchange Due To Truck Fire

LEVITTOWN, Pa. (CBS) — A truck fire has traffic blocked on the westbound side of the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Levittown, Bucks County. The fire happened at a toll booth at the Delaware Valley Interchange. No word on how the fire started. No injuries have been reported.... - KYW News Radio 1060

03-29-2016 Tractor-trailer erupts in flame at toll booth

A tractor-trailer burst into flames Tuesday at the Pennsylvania Turnpike toll booth at the bridge to New Jersey in Bristol Township. There are no reports of injuries in the blaze. Westbound lanes have been closed at the toll booth while crews remove the charred wreckage of the tractor and the flatbed trailer carrying two large... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-29-2016 Debate Over PAARC Test Grows In New Jersey

CAMDEN, N.J., (CBS) — As New Jersey students gear up for a second year of PARCC testing next week, parents who are opting their kids out are becoming more visible. Signs are popping up on laws that say “Our Family Refuses PARCC,” created by New Jersey Kids and Families.... - KYW News Radio 1060

03-29-2016 Taxi, Uber Black Drivers Threaten DNC Boycott

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Groups representing cab and limo drivers in the city, who have protested having to compete with ride sharing services in recent months, are now eyeing the Democratic National Convention to make a big statement. The Philadelphia Limousine, Cab and Taxi Associations, that’s three... - KYW News Radio 1060

03-29-2016 Natural gas filling station planned

A Utah-based company will build Indiana County’s first compressed natural gas filling station that can be used by the motoring public. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Secretary Leslie Richards Monday announced that the Trillium CNG team, which includes Larson Design Group of... - Indiana Gazette

03-29-2016 County bus services move to natural gas

The public bus services in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties are scheduled to get compressed natural gas stations next year to fuel buses. The Schuylkill Transportation System will join natural gas group in 2018. Citizens will also be able to buy natural gas for their vehicles at the... - Hazleton Standard-Speaker

03-29-2016 Ammo, mask, state police badge, among items found in car of Pa. Turnpike shooter

Live rounds of ammunition, a camouflage mask and a state police ID and badge were among the items investigators found after issuing a search warrant on the car of the retired state trooper police say shot and killed two people during a Pennsylvania Turnpike tollbooth robbery.... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-29-2016 Utah firm chosen to build natural gas fuel stations

The state has chosen to work with Trillium - a Salt Lake City firm - in an $84-million public-private partnership to design, finance, build, maintain and operate compressed natural gas fueling stations for 29 local transit agencies - including Amtran and the Cambria County Transit Authority... - Altoona Mirror

03-29-2016 PennDOT hosts meeting Wednesday on plans for Shrewsbury I-83 exit

Concerned Yorkers will get a chance to voice their opinions Wednesday on proposed improvements to the Interstate 83 exit in Shrewsbury Township. The state Department of Transportation will be holding a public meeting for people to look at the two proposed improvement options for the Exit 4... - York Dispatch

03-29-2016 PennDOT bridge projects span next 4 years

Local PennDOT bridge projects span 4 years By Tom DiStefano CLARION NEWS Writer MARIANNE PennDOT has a slew of bridge projects on tap this summer and for the next couple of

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

years, the transportation agency told local official March 18 at its annual outreach meeting.... - Clarion News

03-29-2016 How bad is Pennsylvania's pothole problem this year?

Pennsylvania's state roads will not require extensive pothole repair thanks to a relatively light snow and little need for plowing this past winter, officials said. Crews with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation have begun their yearly process of identifying and repairing potholes that have been created... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-29-2016 Philadelphia taxi, Uber Black drivers threaten DNC boycott

Taxi, limo and Uber Black drivers are threatening to boycott the Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia this summer unless lawmakers address Lyft and UberX services that have been operating illegally in the city since 2014... - AP

03-28-2016 Amtrak Advances Washington Union Station 2nd Century Plan

(Press Release) 03-28-2016 PennDOT Selects Team for Compressed Natural Gas Fueling Stations...

(Press Release) 03-28-2016 NFIB: Governor Wolf Relents on Budget Impasse

(Press Release) 03-28-2016 BLOG: Voter Registration Deadline Is Almost Here

(Press Release) 03-28-2016 Special Logo Unveiled for 40th Annual PA School Bus Driver Safety Competition

(Press Release) 03-28-2016 April Declared "Financial Education Month" in Pennsylvania

(Around the Capital) 03-28-2016 April Declared "Financial Education Month" in Pennsylvania

(Around the Capital) 03-28-2016 Expect heavy police presence for I-70 construction projects

PennDOT has seven projects underway on the 32-mile stretch of Interstate 70 between Eighty Four in Washington County and New Stanton in Westmoreland County with a price tag of $350 million. In addition to construction barrels and road graders, motorists will find... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-28-2016 Dateline Pittsburgh: People on the Move, 3/27/2016

Accounting Horovitz, Rudoy and Roteman LLC hired Jackie L. Emert, senior leader in its DeJulius division; Daniel R. Steinmeyer, tax team member; and Carolene Chou, accounting and audit team member. Architecture David Howell was promoted to senior project manager at Pieper O’Brien... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-28-2016 For first time, drone delivers package to residential area

RENO, Nev. — A drone has successfully delivered a package to a residential location in a small Nevada town in what its maker and the governor of the state said Friday was the first fully autonomous urban drone delivery in the U.S... - AP

03-28-2016 Tall Ships Erie to bring at least 10 ships to Pennsylvania port

At least 10 “tall ships” are to sail into Pennsylvania’s port for Tall Ships Erie, a celebration of ships set for Sept. 8-11. The event kicks off that Thursday with a parade of sail into Lake Erie’s Presque Isle Bay and offers visitors tours and short sails on... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

03-28-2016 Closed turnpike on-ramp in Cranberry reopens seven hours after crash

The Pennsylvania Turnpike on-ramp in Cranberry was closed for more than seven hours Sunday when a tractor-trailer carrying a load of tea crashed and overturned. The crash happened shortly before 10 a.m.,

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

and the turnpike reopened about 5 p.m., according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-28-2016 Broadway Avenue upgrades to begin on T project

The upcoming $8.4 million Broadway Avenue light-rail project in Pittsburgh's Beechview neighborhood aims to replace almost a mile of track that has broken down 22 times in the past eight years. Broken rail, cracks in the bolt holes and imperfections in welding are the... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-28-2016 I-70 revamp hopes to curb accidents, will be under construction through late 2017

PennDOT planners hope to curb accidents and improve traffic flow near the Washington Mall by revamping the interchange at Interstate 70 and Route 19 with an innovative design that will allow motorists to make left turns without passing in front of opposing traffic.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-28-2016 I-70 traffic enforcement beefed up from Westmoreland to West Virginia

State police warned motorists venturing out on Interstate 70 in Westmoreland County and areas to the west that traffic enforcement will be stepped up over the Easter holiday weekend. It's part of a crackdown on speeding and other traffic violations that began March 1 along the... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-28-2016 Bridge replacements planned in A-K Valley portion of Armstrong County

Residents in the Alle-Kiski Valley portion of Armstrong County won't see an abundance of orange construction cones this summer, according to PennDOT officials, who outlined this year's projects Thursday. There are no paving projects slated for southern Armstrong County.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-28-2016 Service held for retired police officer killed in turnpike robbery

YORK — Hundreds gathered for a memorial service for a retired police officer shot and killed in a robbery attempt at a rural toll plaza on the Pennsylvania Turnpike... - AP

03-28-2016 70 mph speed limit coming to turnpike, interstates by May

More 70 mph speed limits are expected in Pennsylvania this spring. PennDOT Secretary Leslie Richards said this week that higher speed limits will be announced in May for stretches of the Pennsylvania Turnpike and interstates. But they're unsure where they might apply.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-28-2016 American Airlines pilot arrested after allegedly showing up drunk for flight to Philadelphia

An American Airlines pilot was arrested at Detroit Metropolitan Airport on Saturday by airport police after officials say he failed a Breathalyzer test prior to his flight to Philadelphia. Flight 736, expected to arrive in Philadelphia at 8:47 a.m., was canceled... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-28-2016 Will cellphone use while walking be banned in N.J.?

Here is another reason to take a break from texting or talking on your smartphone while walking in New Jersey: a possible $50 fine. A bill proposed this week by Assemblywoman Pamela R. Lampitt (D., Camden) would impose a fine of up to $50 and possibly 15 days in jail for... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-28-2016 Monday is last day to register for primary

Monday is the final day to register to vote in Pennsylvania's primary. Eligible voters must be 18, a U.S. citizen, and a state resident. Voters must be enrolled in a political party to vote in that party's primary. All registered voters can vote on ballot questions.... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-28-2016 Flowers: Praying that all be saved from persecution

SOMETIMES, God speaks softly. He shows you the magnificence of his glory in the mewling of a newborn child, eyes still closed against the world but lungs fully operational. Other times, his anger is announced with obvious thunder, like when he sends a plague of locusts down upon recalcitrant... - Philadelphia Daily News

03-28-2016 Letters: Eakin, DRPA leave little confidence in government

ISSUE | PUBLIC SERVANTS Eakin's example scares one straight My father always said, "Whatever you do, stay out of the courts and hospitals." I once figured he meant not to get sick or in trouble. The older I get, the more I realize the second part meant not to deal with... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-28-2016 Turnpike shooting victim remembered for police service and his good humor

April 1, 2016

PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2016 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com

The buzzing of the fluroscent lights above was the only sound that could be heard for a long stretch of time in Utz Arena on Saturday afternoon as more than six dozen current and retired police officers and park rangers slowly processed down the aisle to pay their last respects to a law enforcement... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-28-2016 Members of the public debate a proposed bill that would lessen penalties of marijuana possession

in Harrisburg HARRISBURG — Would a lesser penalty for marijuana possession encourage drug usage, or would it help the city's youth caught with the drug to find the help they need? While comments varied on both sides of the issue during the second public hearing held by the Harrisburg City Council on Thursday night, one thing... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-28-2016 Deadline to register to vote in Pa. primary is Monday: How to register

If you are not registered to vote in Pennsylvania, you have until Monday to add your name to the roster of names that could possibly determine who seals the party nominations. As political pundits point out, it is unlikely that presidential nominations will be shored up by the time Pennsylvania holds its primary on... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-28-2016 Transit rail line serving Pittsburgh, suburbs closed for fix

PITTSBURGH About 12,000 Pittsburgh-area have to find a different way to get around for about the next six months... - AP

03-28-2016 Allen Township frets over impact of bridge's new weight limit on emergency vehicles

ALLEN TOWNSHIP — A recent weight restriction change by PennDOT means firefighters and other responders in Allen Township risk breaking the law by crossing a bridge near the fire department to respond to emergency calls. PennDOT turned down Allen's request for a special exception permit that... - Allentown Morning Call

03-28-2016 Another roadblock for the FedEx project?

Just as it appeared the Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority was about to clear its final hurdle to close its land sale for the $335 million FedEx Ground project, a new obstacle is rising. A landowner in Hanover Township, Lehigh County, is challenging the authority's right to condemn private land needed to widen a road to handle... - Allentown Morning Call

03-28-2016 Rooney resigns from Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority

The Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority is losing one of its most tenured members, after T.J. Rooney announced this week that he was resigning the seat he took in 2008. Rooney, a former seven-term state representative and long-time state Democratic Party Chairman said he's become too busy to devote the time he... - Allentown Morning Call

03-28-2016 Good move at airport

Moving the passenger-screening area at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport is a good decision not only to increase airport revenue but for security. At most airports, restaurants and other businesses are behind the security areas. But at the local airport, those businesses are outside the screening... - Scranton Times

03-28-2016 Scranton bike-share program doubles in size in 2nd year

Riding high on a successful pilot year, a free bike-share program based in Scranton doubled in size for its upcoming second season, according to the program’s host organization. The Lackawanna Heritage Valley used the remaining funds of last year’s $15,000 NEPA Health Care Foundation grant to purchase more than 20 bicycles... - Wilkes-Barre Citizens' Voice

03-28-2016 Letter to the Editor: Writer dubious of ‘savings’ in PennDOT’s plan to do away with vehicle

registration stickers So, Leslie S. Richards, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, thinks eliminating the vehicle registration stickers is going to save money. In a recent letter to the editor, she cites a $3.1 million annual savings in product and mailing costs. First, there will be no savings in mailing... - Wilkes-Barre Times Leader

03-28-2016 Capitol Roundup: Monday is deadline for registering to vote in April primary

HARRISBURG — Secretary of State Pedro A. Cortés reminds Pennsylvanians Monday is the last day to

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register to vote in the April primary election. “Voting is one of the most fundamental rights we have as citizens,” Cortés said. “Over the history of this nation, many people have made... - Wilkes-Barre Times Leader

03-28-2016 Court Sets Deadline for a Volkswagen Diesel Fix, but Solution Could Prove Elusive

The longer it takes for Volkswagen to come up with a way to stop the cars from spewing illegal levels of pollution, the greater the fines it is likely to have to pay the United States government. Car owners themselves face no legal jeopardy, but any repair is also likely to reduce fuel... - New York Times

03-28-2016 PennDOT secretary embraces historic role

Leslie Richards understands and embraces the math. “I’m the 25th PennDOT secretary,” Richards said. “The first 24 were men.” Richards spoke about her experiences Thursday when she came to Washington, Pennsylvania, to discuss an innovative Diverging Diamond Interchange which... - Uniontown Herald-Standard

03-28-2016 Mon Valley Alliance to honor lawmakers, Turnpike Commission

The Mon Valley Progress Council celebrated the success of its organization and the valley during 50 years of its annual dinners. When the annual event is held May 12 at the Willow Room in Rostraver Township, it will celebrate the formation of the Mon Valley Alliance. That... - Uniontown Herald-Standard

03-28-2016 PennDOT eyes innovative interchange for Rostraver Twp.

The Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) PennDOT is building at the Murtland Avenue Interchange near Washington, Pa., is the first of its kind in Pennsylvania. But PennDOT is already studying complex, dangerous interchanges where new innovative engineering designs could save lives and decrease traffic... - Uniontown Herald-Standard

03-28-2016 Ron Southwick: Lawmakers can't blow chance on ignition interlock bill

Pennsylvania lawmakers have a chance to reduce drunken-driving deaths. Other states have enacted tougher laws on drunken driving. State lawmakers must follow suit. "Our state is clearly behind the rest of the nation in addressing DUI," said Chris Demko. A Lancaster County resident, Demko lost his daughter, Meredith, in a crash... - Reading Eagle

03-28-2016 Kelly's Korner: 85 mph speed limit also has its downsides

It can get you where you want to go faster, but it takes you away, too. - Reading Eagle 03-28-2016 Airport authority seeks a way for former terminal to make money

Officials want to attract private investment for 55-year-old passenger terminal. - Reading Eagle 03-28-2016 Editorial: We must stop terror attacks while maintaining our tenets

It is altogether wrong to try to defeat terrorism by dwindling our democratic principles. The cowards' bombs were in Brussels this time. The crowded public targets were an airport and subway station. The March 22 casualty count, which we deliver these days with far too much familiarity and far too little shock,... - Reading Eagle

03-28-2016 Erie region news: $9 million bridge reconstruction to begin in Meadville

MEADVILLE Smock Bridge construction scheduled to begin Monday A $9 million rehabilitation of the Smock Bridge is expected to get underway Monday. The multi-span bridge carries routes 6, 19 and 322 over French Creek and Western New York & Pennsylvania Railroad tracks in Meadville, and West Mead... - Erie Times-News

03-28-2016 Spring, summer roadwork will result in lane closures on l-376 West

Road crews will reduce westbound traffic on Interstate 376 West to two lanes Tuesday, from the McClaren Road interchange (Exit 56) to the Beaver County line, PennDOT spokesman Steve Cowan said. The roadwork is part of a $66 million reconstruction project in Allegheny... - Beaver County Times

03-28-2016 Residents scramble to register to vote before Monday deadline

BEAVER -- A looming deadline to register for the primary continued to draw residents into the Beaver County elections and voter registration office. Monday is the last day to register to vote or change political parties for Pennsylvania's primary election next month, and county elections and voter... - Beaver County Times

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03-28-2016 How to register to vote in Pennsylvania primary

Monday is the last day to register. The last day to register for the upcoming primary is Monday. To participate in the the April 26 primary, Pennsylvania voters can register by: Filling out a paper form that can be found at the local voting and elections office, which is in the basement of the York County... - York Daily

03-28-2016 White roses and thorns (editorial)

WHITE ROSES: To everyone who registers to vote in the April 26 primary. The deadline to register is March 28. ROSES: To Pennsylvania Secretary of State Pedro Cortés for his agency’s efforts to improve voting systems in Pennsylvania. The state’s online registration process was a major step forward. Check out www.votespa.com.... - York Daily

03-28-2016 Changes could add hundreds of millions of dollars to first 29 miles of bullet train

The California rail authority is facing hundreds of millions of dollars in potential change orders and other prospective cost increases on the first 29 miles of the bullet train system, state and private contractor documents show. The change orders and other claims are coming from construction firms,... - Los Angeles Times

03-28-2016 Ballot measure that could have derailed the bullet train project is put on hold

California's bullet train dodged a major threat Friday as critics delayed a proposed ballot measure that would have taken $8 billion in high-speed rail bonds and reallocated them for water projects. Backers announced they were likely to postpone the effort for two years,... - Los Angeles Times

03-28-2016 State's rapid bridge replacement starts this year in county

Eighteen bridges in Lawrence County are scheduled for replacement this year and next under the state's Rapid Bridge Replacement Program. The Lawrence County commissioners this week received notices from Plenary Walsh Keystone Partners of Pittsburgh that Pennsylvania Department of... - New Castle News

03-28-2016 FULL STORY: Interstate 79 in Crawford County a "likely candidate" for 70 mph speed limit; rest of

interstate under study Motorists traveling through Crawford County may arrive at their destination just a little quicker this summer, as the stretch of Interstate 79 through Crawford County is a "likely candidate" for a hike in the speed limit, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.... - Meadville Tribune

03-28-2016 Dinniman: Report potholes to PennDOT

State Sen. Andy Dinniman recently reminded motorists that they can report potholes and other state road maintenance issues in Chester County to PennDOT directly by dialing 484-340-3201. Potholes reported to that number will be forwarded directly to an assistant... - West Chester Daily Local News

03-28-2016 PA elected officials propose legislation on repeat DUI offenders

Elected officials were joined Tuesday by grieving families who are proposing harsher sanctions on repeat drunk drivers who have taken the lives of others. State Sen. Lloyd Smucker, R-13, of Lancaster County, state Sen. John Rafferty, R-44, of Montgomery County, state Rep. Keith Greiner, R-43, of... - West Chester Daily Local News

03-28-2016 More than $2.5M reimbursed to Chester County for snow cleanup costs

Chester County officials announced Friday that the state released federal funding to partially compensate the snow removal expenses undertaken by municipalities, school districts and other non-profits after an intense blizzard, dubbed Winter Storm Jonas, dumped about two feet of snow on the... - West Chester Daily Local News

03-28-2016 Express train service to aid Pennsylvania-Delaware commuters

WILMINGTON, Del. Pennsylvania residents who work in Delaware will soon have an easier commute home... - AP

03-28-2016 SEPTA turning two trains from Delaware into expresses

SEPTA is turning two weekday afternoon trains from Delaware on the Newark/ Wilmington Line into expresses to University City starting April 11. Affected are Train 2760, which departs Newark Station at 4:46 p.m. and Train 9294, departing Newark Station at 5:46 p.m.... - Philadelphia Inquirer

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03-28-2016 On Pennsylvania's finally resolved budget stalemate, and the not-so-resolved state of American

politics THE ISSUE After a budget stalemate that lasted about nine months, Pennsylvania will finally have a full budget for 2015-16, leaving Illinois as the only state without one in the country. Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf’s quest for “a multibillion-dollar tax increase from a Republican-controlled... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal

03-28-2016 Speed limit will increase to 70 mph on turnpike; other local highways may follow suit

Motorists will soon be able to put the hammer down on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The state Secretary of Transportation says speed limits on some highways will increase to 70 mph in May. According to the Associated Press, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission approved the increase earlier this month for areas currently posted 65 mph.... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal

03-28-2016 Route 228 widening funded but years away

Parts of each of the four remaining projects to widen Route 228 from Route 8 to Route 19 are funded, which is the closest that the state Department of Transportation has come yet to completing the upgrade of the entire section of the heavily used highway. Brian Allen, PennDOT’s District 10 assistant district executive for... - Butler Eagle

03-28-2016 Transformer transport to Port Allegany rescheduled

PORT ALLEGANY — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is alerting area motorists that Mammoet USA NE Corp. has rescheduled the transport of a second transformer super load for Thursday along routes 155 and 6 in the Port Allegany area. The transformer will follow the same route as the first transport on March... - Bradford Era

03-28-2016 Union supervisors hear Schuylkill River Trail pedestrian bridge options

The Schuylkill River Heritage Area is looking to install an overhead 115-foot pedestrian bridge to carry trail users over a hazardous crossing at Route 724 in Monocacy. The crossing is a part of the Thun Section of the Schuylkill River Trail. Bob Folwell, trails manager for the Heritage Area, presented the proposed... - Pottstown Mercury

03-28-2016 PennDOT contract could lead to natural gas fueling stations for LANTA

LANTA's two bus depots are included in a list of statewide mass transit systems that should get more natural gas-powered vehicles on the road, under a contract the state announced Monday. PennDOT said it awarded a 20-year, $84.5 million contract to Salt Lake... - Allentown Morning Call

03-28-2016 $5.2M loan to prime development near Pittsburgh International Airport

A regional financing initiative made a $5.7 million loan to the Allegheny County Airport Authority to support developments in the Clinton Commerce Park in Findlay. The Power of 32 Site Development Fund Partners made the loan to cover infrastructure improvements at the site including storm water management,... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

03-25-2016 SEPTA postpones fare increase

SEPTA riders' wallets will get a break in 2016 as a planned fare increase will be postponed for another year. SEPTA has introduced a fare increase every three years since 2007, and was due for another in July, the beginning of the 2017 fiscal year. The increase would have varied across subway, bus, trolley, Regional Rail, and... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-25-2016 70 mph speed limit coming to turnpike, interstates by May

More 70 mph speed limits are expected in Pennsylvania this spring... - AP 03-24-2016 Insurance Commissioner Encourages Motorcyclists to Take Actions to Reduce...

(Press Release) 03-24-2016 Vehicle registration fees help stretch Allegheny County paving budget

Allegheny County plans to pave 45 miles of road this year, 50 percent more miles than the 30 miles it paved in 2015, county Executive Rich Fitzgerald told members of county council Tuesday. Fitzgerald said spending on road paving will increase $3.8 million. The... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

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03-24-2016 Nurse tells of doughnut shop argument and then arrest by SEPTA cop As an immigrant, Muibat Williamson has firm ideas about what the United States and its citizens should be about. So when a SEPTA police officer cut in line on Christmas 2013 as she waited in the Dunkin' Donuts shop in Suburban Station and then, according to her,... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-24-2016 American Airlines to begin profit-sharing

American Airlines, the largest carrier at Philadelphia International Airport, announced Wednesday it will begin profit sharing with employees based on 2016 earnings. The payout will be 5 percent of every pre-tax dollar earned, and will go to about 110,000 of American's 120,000 employees. Some managers will not... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-24-2016 Commentary: State should allow city to use safety cameras

IN 2013, Feltonville resident Samara Banks and three of her children were killed by a driver racing another motorist, traffic light to traffic light on Roosevelt Boulevard. Why would anyone blatantly speed on a road posted at 45 mph? Because racing on an overly wide Roosevelt Boulevard is easy and... - Philadelphia Inquirer

03-24-2016 Lehigh Township drunken driver: 'I'm sorry. It's really all I've got.'

EASTON — Two families fought tears Wednesday as a Lehigh Township drunken driver who killed a man and seriously injured two other people was led off to jail. Michael J. McCandless-Dietrich will serve four to eight years in state prison, but he will carry the weight of his crime for the rest of his life,... - Allentown Morning Call

03-24-2016 Crime on the decline, new development on the rise, says Easton Mayor in annual State of the City

address EASTON — Easton's crime rate continues to decrease while new development is on the rise, Mayor Sal Panto Jr. said during his annual State of the City address Wednesday evening. "Easton's momentum is unparalleled and we continue to be recognized regionally for all of the progress we've made in recent years, in spite of... - Allentown Morning Call

03-24-2016 Shuster praised for work on transportation bill

Congratulations are in order to U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster, R-Hollidaysburg, and colleagues from both sides of the aisle for moving the vital transportation bill. - Uniontown Herald-Standard

03-24-2016 Airport, Beaver County emergency officials advise caution in wake of Brussels attack

Precautions have been taken locally in monitoring Tuesday's bombings in Belgium, officials in Beaver County and at Pittsburgh International Airport say. “All (flight) operations are normal,” said Bob Kerlik, Pittsburgh International Airport spokeman. “But the public will see a more visible... - Beaver County Times

03-24-2016 $9.29 million Kennedy Boulevard improvement project begins Thursday in Aliquippa

ALIQUIPPA -- Once it's over, a $9.29 million project to improve three miles of Kennedy Boulevard and Brodhead Road should be worth any of the traffic headaches spurred by the work, Aliquippa City Manager Sam Gill said Wednesday. "We're looking forward to the finished project," Gill said. "I'm just... - Beaver County Times

03-24-2016 Letter: Try these traffic control measures

In regard to some of the local traffic issues, here are some solutions: 1. Improve signage for Interstate 80 East and West on South Fifth Street just south of McMichael Creek. Presently, “destinations” define the direction, and arrows that might clarify things for tourists are... - Pocono Record

03-24-2016 Closed primaries burden young voters

Athletes and non-athletes can probably agree: Sidelines aren't fun. But independent, unaffiliated voters in Pennsylvania during primary season are locked to the bleachers as Democrats and Republicans brawl on the field. Over the last 20 years, party affiliation in the U.S. has waned. In 2014,... - York Daily

03-24-2016 Geisinger gets OK for Woodbine Lane work

DANVILLE — Geisinger Health System has received its highway occupancy permit from the state Department of Transportation for work on Woodbine Lane, a medical center administrator told the Geisinger Authority on Wednesday. Bob Davies, Geisinger chief support services officer, said two road... - Sunbury Daily Item

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03-24-2016 Big Savage Tunnel opens for hikers, bikers Volunteers and representatives of Somerset County agencies worked to open the doors of the Big Savage Tunnel Wednesday near Deal. The tunnel, a landmark on the Great Allegheny Passage, is closed during the winter months. From left are Somerset County Rails-to-Trails Association member... - Somerset Daily

03-24-2016 State road work to start in Somerset

CH&D Enterprises, of New Stanton, will begin work Wednesday on the Route 31 West Corridor Improvements Project in Somerset Township and Somerset Borough, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The work consists of the widening and overlay of Route 31, the realignment of... - Somerset Daily

03-24-2016 Can automakers redefine mobility again?

DEARBORN, Mich. If Mark Fields’s theory is correct, his industry faces novel challenges. His theory about the changing role of driving in Americans’ lives is one reason Ford Motor Co. now describes itself as an “automotive and mobility company.” George F. Will writes a twice-weekly column on politics and domestic and... - Washington Post

03-24-2016 Despite Popularity, Bike Share Programs Often Need Subsidies

The first modern U.S. bike share programs rolled out in Denver, Washington, D.C., and the Twin Cities about five years ago as a way to ease congestion, cut pollution and give residents and tourists a fun and healthy way to get around. With their sturdy bikes and docking stations, the systems have spread... - Stateline.org

03-24-2016 Port of L.A. helped pay for cleaner China Shipping vessels--which later stopped docking in L.A.

The Port of Los Angeles paid a Chinese government-owned shipping company $5 million in 2005 to equip cargo vessels to plug into electric shore power while at dock to keep their massive diesel engines from polluting neighborhoods near the harbor. The company, China Shipping, used the money to upgrade 17 ships, but the... - Los Angeles Times

03-24-2016 UTI starts class on Peterbilt trucks

UWCHLAN >> Peterbilt Motors Co. began offering its advanced training program to students at Universal Technical Institute’s Exton campus this week. Peterbilt’s program is already in place at UTI campuses in Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas; and Lisle, Ill. In 2014, Peterbilt collaborated with UTI to create the Peterbilt Technician... - West Chester Daily Local News

03-24-2016 What’s the buzz? Drones spark concern

HAVERFORD >> Shortly after noon on Dec. 20, 2015, a drone fell from the sky, crash landing in the middle of Freedom Playground. Noise from the impact jolted about 30 children and their caregivers from play. “There was an amazingly loud crash, a heavy loud crash. It hit the... - Primos Delaware County Daily and Sunday Times

03-24-2016 Use drones and other high-tech toys responsibly and safely and with plenty of adult supervision

THE ISSUE Officials are looking into at least six disturbances in recent weeks between technology and wildlife at Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area. Reports include drones intruding on migrating waterfowl, another aerial camera flying too close to the Eagle Cam nest near Hanover in York County,... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal

03-24-2016 Richboro trucking company owner charged with fraud

NORTHAMPTON — A Richboro man was charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States. Volodymry Kurylo, also known as "Volyda" and "Vova," 35, was indicted Wednesday, according to the United States Attorney's Office. Sponsored Vehicles for Sale Courier Times Cars is the website to find your next new or used vehicle.... - Levittown Bucks County Courier Times

03-24-2016 Ask/Answered: PennDOT's role in Mount Holly roundabouts

Asked/Answered is a weekly feature for reader-submitted questions. Follow the blog online at www.cumberlink.com: What is PennDOT’s involvement in the proposed Mount Holly Springs roundabout project? PennDOT currently has no role in the Mount Holly Springs project, according... - Carlisle Sentinel

03-24-2016 PA Turnpike shooter's bankruptcy papers found during state police search

HARRISBURG — State police confiscated computer equipment and bankruptcy papers at the Cumberland County home of Clarence Briggs, the retired state trooper who was shot to death after he killed two

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workers in a botched robbery of a Turnpike toll plaza over the weekend, court records show.... - Allentown Morning Call

03-24-2016 Driver accused of texting in fatal crash charged with vehicular homicide

A Lancaster man accused of text-messaging prior to a July 2015 crash that killed a 78-year-old woman has been charged with vehicular homicide. Coroner identifies victim killed in Lancaster County crash The crash took place in the 2000 block of Route 222 in Strasburg Township.... - Harrisburg Patriot-News

03-24-2016 House changes age restrictions in ATV law

A bill changing age restrictions for all-terrain vehicle operators overwhelmingly passed the state House earlier this week, but a southwest Pennsylvania lawmaker was one of the few to oppose it. “I had farmers in mind when I voted against it,” said state Rep.... - Beaver County Times