Wolf administration provides more than $84M for state infrastructure improvements

Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf announced Friday that his administration had approved 166 new projects through the Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF), totaling more than $84 million in funding.

The funding would improve transportation infrastructure in 54 counties across the state. With nearly $500 billion in goods and services moving through Pennsylvania every year, the governor’s office said that modern and dependable infrastructure is vital for promoting economic development across the commonwealth while also improving conditions for residents and visitors.

“My administration has been clear about its commitment to infrastructure investments and upgrades in Pennsylvania,” the Democratic Gov. Wolf said. “This funding benefits commonwealth residents throughout our 67 counties and those visiting the state by making roads, bridges, and other infrastructure safer, more reliable and accessible.”

State Senator John Yudichak (I-Luzerne/Carbon) praised the investment, noting that his Senatorial District in Luzerne County would receive over $2.7 million in funding.
“Investments in our public infrastructure assets will bolster our regional economy, while also providing necessary public safety improvements,” said State Senator John Yudichak. “Today’s announcement includes important funding for the city of Wilkes-Barre as they continue to make the downtown area more pedestrian friendly along Public Square.”

Wilkes-Barre City will receive $800,000 to complete the final Phase VI of its Public Square streetscape sidewalk improvements and upgrades project. Other projects in that district receiving funds include $500,000 for the City of Pittston for streetlights and other streetscape improvements; $200,000 to Exeter Borough for street restoration improvements and pedestrian crosswalk areas; and $100,000 to West Pittston Borough for curb and sidewalk improvements.

Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23) and Rep. David Rowe (R-Union/Snyder) praised the investment in their districts as well. The senators said Union County Industrial Railroad had been awarded $250,000 for the replacement of a rail-highway crossing grade on Route 15.
“Many of my constituents travel across this railroad crossing on Route 15 every day,” Yaw said. “In addition to the increased traffic stemming from the Central Susquehanna Valley Transportation project, I am told there has been a sizable increase in the volume of commodities destined for the Winfield area, both being delivered by truck and rail. I applaud this investment for the Union County Industrial Railroad, and I am happy to support the project moving forward.”

According to the railroad, the existing crossing has needed continual, costly repairs and presents a safety issue when the pavement deteriorates. The proposed crossing is projected to last 30 years, need minimal maintenance and present a safer crossing surface.