Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission seeking private-sector input on tunnel rehabilitation

The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) through coordination with the Office of Public-Private Partnerships (P3), recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking private-sector feedback on design, construction, finance and maintenance for the vehicular tunnels along the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

“We are looking to inject private-sector ideas and expertise into vital improvements of our five tunnels, which rank among our most critical, most recognizable assets,” PA Turnpike CEO Mark Compton said. “A P3 could enable us to focus more capital dollars on rebuilding and widening our 552-mile highway system, parts of which will turn 79 years old later this year.”

Input will be accepted through 1 p.m. on Feb. 7. The RFI is open to any member of the public and is accessible at www.p3.pa.gov.

The RFI aims to gather input on how the PTC could bundle and assemble a P3 project opportunity with the private sector to upgrade and modernize the tunnels while maintaining critical traffic operations.

Under the provisions of Public-Private Transportation Partnerships Act, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and other public entities can enter into agreements with the private sector to participate in the delivery, maintenance and financing of transportation-related projects.

“Innovation is a key pillar in our work at the PA Turnpike, and innovative procurement methods hold promise for benefits to our travelers as well as potential business partners,” Compton said. “I thank the PennDOT P3 office for assisting us on this critical project.”