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September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – 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
HCO 816 Murt, Thomas Eliminates "legislative plates" for members of the General Assembly or United States Congress during their tenure in office or after retirement.
HCO2281 Ward, Judith Clarifies that Dominec Padula, who the Dominec M. "Patsy" Padula Memorial Bridge was named after, was awarded five Bronze Service Stars during World War II.
HCO2292 Snyder, Pam Allows signs that advertise local farmer's markets and farm stands to be exempt from PennDOT's fee requirements along state routes without federal funding.
Bill Actions HB 1192 Adolph, William (PN 1959) The General Appropriation Act of 2015 provides
from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive and Judicial Departments, the State Government Support Agencies and the General Assembly of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016, for certain institutions and organizations, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015; to provide appropriations from the State Lottery Fund, the Tobacco Settlement Fund, the Aviation Restricted Account, the Hazardous Material Response Fund, The State Stores Fund, the Milk Marketing Fund, the Home Investment Trust Fund, the Emergency Medical Services Operating Fund, the Tuition Account Guaranteed Savings Program Fund, the Banking Fund, the Firearm Records Check Fund, the Ben Franklin Technology Development Authority Fund, the Oil and Gas Lease Fund, the Home Improvement Account, the Cigarette Fire Safety and Firefighter Protection Act Enforcement Fund, the Insurance Regulation and Oversight Fund, the Pennsylvania Racehorse Development Restricted Receipt Account, the Justice Reinvestment Fund and the Multimodal Transportation Fund to the Executive Department; to provide appropriations from the Judicial Computer System Augmentation Account to the Judicial Department for the fiscal year July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016; to provide appropriations from the Motor License Fund for the fiscal year July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2016, for the proper operation of several departments of the Commonwealth and the Pennsylvania State Police authorized to spend Motor License Fund money; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive Department of the Commonwealth and for the payment of bills remaining
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds from the General Fund and the State Lottery Fund for the Executive Department of the Commonwealth for the fiscal year July 1, 2014, to June 30, 2015, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015. (Prior Printer Number: 1550, 1679)
Bill History: 08-25-15 H House failed to override Governor's veto (Vote: Y:115/N: 83) 08-25-15 H Over in House 08-26-15 H Press conference held 09-21-15 H Set on the House Calendar 09-01-15 H Press conference held
HB 1298 Santarsiero, Steve (PN 1792) Amends the Tax Reform Code, creating commuter and commerce toll tax credits for qualified taxpayers. Effective in 60 days.
Bill History: 06-04-15 H Filed 06-12-15 H Introduced and referred to committee on House Finance
HB 1520 Saylor, Stanley Amends Title 75 (Vehicles) requiring compliance with Federal Selective Service requirements as part of application for learners' permits or drivers' licenses.
Bill History: 08-28-15 H Filed
PA Bulletin
PENNDOT: STATE TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION MEETING The State Transportation Commission will hold a meeting on Thursday, September 10, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Red Room, Penn Wells Hotel and Lodge, 62 Main Street, Wellsboro. For more information contact Mark J. Tobin, (717) 787-2913, [email protected]. IRRC: NOTICE OF FILING OF FINAL RULEMAKINGS The Independent Regulatory Review Commission received the following regulations, scheduled to be considered on October 8, 2015: Department of Transportation 18-463: Authorized Vehicles and Special Operating Privileges Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board 54-79: Responsible Alcohol Management Program
Upcoming Events
PA Public Utility Commission September 3, 2015 - 10:00 a.m., Commonwealth Keystone Bldg., Hearing Room 1, 400 North St., Harrisburg Public Meeting. For additional information: (717) 783-1740 Delaware River Port Authority/PATCO September 9, 2015 - 9:00 a.m., 11th Floor Board Room, One Port Center, 2 Riverside Drive, Camden NJ Finance Committee Meeting. For additional information: (856) 968-2253 Delaware River Port Authority/PATCO September 9, 2015 - 10:30 a.m., 11th Floor Board Room, One Port Center, 2 Riverside Drive, Camden NJ Audit Committee Meeting. For additional information: (856) 968-2253 Senate Consumer Protection & Prof. Licensure 9/10/15, 1:00 p.m., Sheraton, Ellwood Room, 300 W. Station Square, Pittsburgh Public hearing on Transportation Network Companies
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
PA Turnpike Commission September 15, 2015 - 10:00 a.m., Turnpike Admin. Bldg, Large Board Rm, 700 S. Eisenhower Blvd., 3rd Fl., Middletown Commission Meeting. For additional information: (717) 939-9551 Department of Transportation September 15, 2015 - 6:00 p.m., Pittsburgh Amtrak Station, 1100 Liberty Avenue, Pittsburgh Public meeting to review the draft for the update of the PA State Rail Plan. For additional information: (717) 783-8800 Delaware River Port Authority/PATCO September 16, 2015 - 9:00 a.m., 11th Floor Board Room, One Port Center, 2 Riverside Drive, Camden NJ Board Meeting. For additional information: (856) 968-2253 Department of Transportation September 16, 2015 - 6:00 p.m., Centre Region Council of Governments, 2643 Gateway Drive, State College Public meeting to review the draft for the update of the PA State Rail Plan. For additional information: (717) 783-8800 Independent Regulatory Review Commission 9/17/15, 10:00 a.m., 14th Floor Conference Room, 333 Market Street, Harrisburg To consider 3081 Philadelphia Parking Authority #126-10: Image Retention and Use (Previously Withdrawn) Department of Transportation September 17, 2015 - 6:00 p.m., Amtrak 30th Street Station, 2955 Market Street, Philadelphia Public meeting to review the draft for the update of the PA State Rail Plan. For additional information: (717) 783-8800 Pittsburgh Port Authority September 17, 2015 - 9:00 a.m., Neal N. Holmes Board Room, Pittsburgh Port Authority Building, 5th Floor, 345 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh Performance and Oversight Monitoring Committee Meeting. For additional information: (412) 566-5137 Pittsburgh Port Authority September 17, 2015 - 10:00 a.m., Neal N. Holmes Board Room, Pittsburgh Port Authority Building, 5th Floor, 345 Sixth Avenue, Pittsburgh Planning and Stakeholder Relations Committee Meeting. For additional information: (412) 566-5137 PA Public Utility Commission September 17, 2015 - 10:00 a.m., Commonwealth Keystone Bldg., Hearing Room 1, 400 North St., Harrisburg Public Meeting. For additional information: (717) 783-1740
Session Schedule Senate September 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 October 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 November 16, 17, 18 December 7, 8, 9 House September 21, 22, 28 (NV), 29, 30 October 5, 6, 7, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28 November 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 (NV) December 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16
In the News
09-03-2015 DEP News for September 3, 2015 (Press Release)
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
09-03-2015 Port Authority restores service after T shutdown T service resumed as normal Wednesday night after a power outage halted trains for roughly 30 minutes. Port Authority spokesman Jim Ritchie said service was restored about 10:30 p.m. Trolleys were running on a single track through much of the Downtown and North Shore area while the repairs were being made.... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
09-03-2015 American to halt 2 direct routes from Pittsburgh International
American Airlines will suspend direct flights from Pittsburgh International Airport to Hartford and St. Louis in November, a ripple effect from a national pilot shortage and a setback to Pittsburgh's efforts to expand flights and destinations. American's flights from Pittsburgh to Bradley International Airport in... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-03-2015 Pennsylvania's new online voter registration racks up 5,000 applicants
In a normal week, the Allegheny County Department of Elections receives about 2,500 paper forms from voters who want to change their addresses or register to vote. This week, 20 percent of the forms arrived electronically for the first time through a statewide voter registration system, saving staff members... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-03-2015 Pittsburgh plan to share license plate data with police advances
Pittsburgh City Council on Wednesday advanced a bill that would permit the Pittsburgh Parking Authority to share license plate numbers with city police. The authority records license plates using vehicle-mounted cameras and scans thousands of plates daily in the search for parking violations.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-03-2015 Ross officials work to spread word about free senior shopping shuttle
Some residents of senior living high-rises in Ross started Monday the way they do every week: aboard a carpeted charter bus, bags in hand, ready to shop. Cheese, yogurt and coffee were on the list for Cathy Vonderau, 67. Regina Dietz, 93, needed paper towels and stamps, and Jane Thori, 83, bought... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-03-2015 Pittsburgh light rail station evacuated after overhead lines smoke and spark
Overhead power lines sparked and smoked Wednesday evening, forcing the evacuation of the Gateway light rail station on Stanwix Street, Downtown, a Port Authority spokesman said. Damage to the lines forced Port Authority officials to operate alternating inbound and outbound cars between Downtown and the North Shore while... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-03-2015 County pledges money for Coatesville revitalization
COATESVILLE The Chester County commissioners pledged Wednesday to give Coatesville $2 million for transportation, services, and infrastructure as the county's only city works toward revitalization. County Commissioner Michelle Kichline said she and her colleagues were... - Philadelphia Inquirer
09-03-2015 LHVA seeks $14.2 million grant to close most trail gaps in Lackawanna County
The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail could be one grant — albeit a large and highly competitive one — away from seeing all of its gaps closed between Taylor and Fell Twp. The Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority applied for $14.27 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant program to fund 14 projects to cultivate... - Scranton Times
09-03-2015 DUI enforcement initiative planned for Labor Day weekend
‘Drive Sober’ initiative planned SCRANTON — The state Department of Transportation, state and municipal police officers will take part in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement initiative over Labor Day weekend. State DUI Task Forces and police statewide will conduct checkpoints and... - Scranton Times
09-03-2015 LHVA seeks $14.2 million grant to close most trail gaps in Lackawanna County
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
The Lackawanna River Heritage Trail could be one grant — albeit a large and highly competitive one — away from seeing all of its gaps closed between Taylor and Fell Twp. The Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority applied for $14.27 million U.S. Department of Transportation grant program to fund 14 projects to cultivate... - Scranton Times
09-03-2015 More than two million vehicles expected on the Turnpike over Labor Day weekend
With nearly 2.2 million vehicles expected to travel the Pennsylvania Turnpike over the four-day Labor Day weekend, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) advises motorists to stay alert and steer clear of aggressive drivers. Traffic is expected to be the heaviest Friday afternoon from 3 p.m. to 7... - Wilkes-Barre Times Leader
09-03-2015 Nice weather, low gas prices mean more cars on the road
Travel experts agree there will probably be more people driving to vacation destinations this Labor Day weekend, but maybe not as many as you >>>> Continue Reading Eagle: Jeremy Drey | Analysts are predicting a busy travel weekend mainly because the weather forecast looks great and gasoline... - Reading Eagle
09-03-2015 Pat Howard: Progress bypasses parts of eastside Erie
ERIE, Pa. -- Some weeks ago when I was driving back to the newspaper across East 10th Street, I noticed a little sign while waiting for a red light. It sits up between the traffic signals at the intersection with the Bayfront Connector, carrying a message for people trying to make their way... - Erie Times-News
09-03-2015 Help wanted: VA in need of volunteer drivers
September 3, 2015 The Veterans’ Administration is again looking for volunteers to drive area veterans to medical appointments to Erie, Pittsburgh, Buffalo and occasionally Cleveland. more »» - Warren Times Observer
09-03-2015 Gas prices the lowest since 2004
Pennsylvanians paid an average of $3.49 for a gallon of gasoline this time last year, but this year is a different story as gas prices have tumbled for more than two weeks to a current average of $2.49, according to AAA. Yet, finding the lowest prices still comes down to filling up where there... - Washington Observer-Reporter
09-03-2015 County to sell small tracts of land in Arden
The Washington County commissioners expect on Thursday to sell two small tracts of land in Chartiers Township to Washington Penn Plastic Co., which plans to construct a railroad siding along Arden Station Road. The sales prices of $3,800 for one tract and $9,050 for the other are based... - Washington Observer-Reporter
09-03-2015 Improvements for Exit 4 of I-83 moving forward
Improvements planned for the Shrewsbury exit of Interstate 83 are moving forward, and transportation officials say they hope to present two options for the interchange to the public by the end of the year. Construction could be just a few years away, officials said.... - York Daily
09-03-2015 I-83 repairs to continue on Thursday in southern York County, PennDOT says
Repairs will continue on Interstate 83 in southern York County this week, according to the state Department of Transportation. On Thursday, crews will be conducting a base repair operation on the northbound side between Exit 8 (Glen Rock) and Exit 10 (Loganville),... - York Daily
09-03-2015 Cities scramble to be prepared for an oil train disaster
PHILADELPHIA (AP) — They rumble past schools, homes and businesses in dozens of cities around the country — 100-car trains loaded with crude oil from the Upper Midwest... - AP
09-03-2015 Turnpike officials: 2.2 million vehicles to travel turnpike this weekend
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
Pennsylvania Turnpike officials expect about 2.2 million vehicles will travel the highway this weekend for Labor Day. Spokeswoman Mimi Doyle said the heaviest traffic is expected from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday and from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday.To prepare for the heavy... - Levittown Bucks County Courier Times
09-03-2015 Officials Clarify Ticketing Information For Papal Visit
On Wednesday, the Secret Service released a Pedestrian Walking Map for the weekend of the Papal Visit. The map indicated areas where event attendees could walk and where those attending events needed to walk through security points. The map also indicated areas where tickets were required for access. This... - KYW News Radio 1060
09-03-2015 Expert: Don't expect sub-$2 gas in Pa. this fall
While sub-$2 gas has arrived across the border at some New Jersey stations in time for Labor Day, an expert says it would be a Christmas gift for Pennsylvania to see prices that low by the end of the year. That's because drivers who fill their tanks in Pennsylvania pay the highest... - Allentown Morning Call
09-03-2015 Traffic moving on I-81 after crash snarled morning commute
By Megan Trimble | [email protected] Traffic is moving again after a crash involving multiple vehicles tied up the morning commute on Interstate 81 Thursday. Middlesex Exit.png Pennsylvania Department of Transportation The crash was reported shortly before 8:15 a.m. in the northbound lanes... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-03-2015 I-80 rock-throwing victim's husband steps up push for overpass fencing
By John Beauge | Special to PennLive I-80 rock-throwing victim's husband steps up push for overpass fencing Husband humbled by $4,500 raised for I-80 rock-throwing victim Motorcyslists show support for I-80 rock-throwing victim Budd family relieved to avoid trial in I-80 rock-throwing case... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-03-2015 Editorial: Online voter registration's time has come
It's good news that Pennsylvania has joined 22 other states in making it possible for its citizens to register to vote online using the state's website. Gov. Tom Wolf said it best when he announced the move to bring voter registration online: It is about giving citizens an easier way to exercise... - Chambersburg Public Opinion
09-03-2015 Estimated 2.2 million vehicles expected on PA Turnpike this weekend
With nearly 2.2 million vehicles expected to travel the Pennsylvania Turnpike over the four-day Labor Day weekend, the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission advises motorists to stay alert and steer clear of aggressive drivers. To prepare for this surge in travel, maintenance and construction... - Chambersburg Public Opinion
09-03-2015 Gas prices lowest in years as Labor Day nears
Motorists will enjoy lower gasoline prices as they venture out over the Labor Day holiday weekend. - Altoona Mirror
09-03-2015 Morning delay: Banksville Road contractor failed to give notice of lane restriction
Thousands of unsuspecting drivers hit heavier-than-usual congestion along Banksville Road heading onto the Parkway West on Thursday morning, where traffic was reduced to a single lane without any prior public notice. PennDOT District 11 spokesman Steve Cowan said Swank Construction Company,... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-03-2015 PennDOT wants public input on what to do with human remains found along Route 61
Te Pennsylvania Department of Transportation wants the public's input on what it should do with human remains found during a highway project in Schuylkill County. lRelated Bones unearthed during road project may be Spanish flu victims LOCAL NEWS Bones unearthed during road
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
project may be Spanish flu victims... - Allentown Morning Call 09-03-2015 PennDOT says contractor may face penalty for restricting traffic on Banksville
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette PennDOT officials said a contractor did not get department approval before shutting down a lane of rush-hour traffic on Banksville Road this morning that caused lengthy delays for morning commuters. Steve Cowan, a spokesman for the Department of Transportation, said this... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
09-03-2015 Suburban Pittsburgh police to step up DUI patrols for holiday weekend
Police in 10 southern and western suburbs said they will be out in force this weekend in search of drunken and drugged drivers. "We're going to be conducting numerous patrols, both stationary checkpoints and roving checkpoints, to detect, deter and apprehend impaired drivers,"... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
09-03-2015 When will the Lehigh Valley see $2 gas?
While sub-$2 gas has arrived across the border at some New Jersey stations in time for Labor Day, an expert says it would be a Christmas gift for Pennsylvanians to see prices that low by the end of the year. That's because drivers who fill their tanks in Pennsylvania pay the highest... - Allentown Morning Call
09-02-2015 Secretary Cortés: 5,000 application milestone shows Pennsylvanians welcome...
(Press Release) 09-02-2015 House Dems: Online voter registration now available in Pennsylvania
(Press Release) 09-02-2015 Governor Wolf Nominates Barry Drew to Turnpike Commission
(Press Release) 09-02-2015 Mount Washington merchants fear effects of renovations on Mon Incline
The Shiloh Grill on Shiloh Street in Mount Washington has 16 beers on tap, indoor and outdoor seating and, on Tuesdays, the powerful lure of free bacon. Business has increased steadily since the restaurant opened in 2010, said manager Jeron Sedlock. But the restaurant and other businesses face some... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
09-02-2015 To be a real public transit link, the Almono project should connect to Downtown
Regarding the proposed “transit link” between Oakland and the Almono development site (“City Seeking Money for Transit Link,” Aug. 29): Do not confuse this with public transportation, as the only “public” aspect seems to be the funding. While there is creation of value for the real estate developers (OK, the... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
09-02-2015 Ford and Chrysler sales rise in August as GM falls; Construction spending reaches
highest level in 7 years; Triumph Motorcycles fined over safety violations Ford and Chrysler sales rise in August as GM falls The Big Three U.S. automakers reported August sales on Tuesday, with Ford leading with a 5.4 percent increase. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles said its U.S. sales increased 1.7 percent, but General Motors said its sales dropped... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
09-02-2015 All have right to public transit
The CATA Board of Directors meeting on Aug. 24 had more public comments than have been heard in recent history. The issue of the civil right to public transportation for those with disabilities was of great concern. While some were there to support their friend, one gentleman spoke quite... - State College Centre Daily Times
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
09-02-2015 Pennsylvania Turnpike whistleblower lawsuit given new life HARRISBURG, Pa. — A former Pennsylvania Turnpike employee is getting another chance to pursue his claim that he was improperly fired in retaliation for blowing the whistle on agency practices... - AP
09-02-2015 Pedro A. Cortés: You can now register online to vote in Pennsylvania
Pedro A. Cortés - Contributing Columnist Imagine if there was a way to save taxpayer money, fulfill an important role of government with far greater accuracy and efficiency, and bring about increased participation in our democracy. There is such an innovation already in use in nearly two dozen other states... - Wilkes-Barre Times Leader
09-02-2015 Wise move
It’s a win-win. Gov. Tom Wolf announced last Thursday that Pennsylvania will be the 23rd state in the country to provide online voter registration. Instead of trudging down to the county election bureau to fill out a voter registration form, state residents can now sit down at their own computer,... - Uniontown Herald-Standard
09-02-2015 New PennDOT Website Shows Customers Active, Planned Projects
Pennsylvanians looking for information on construction projects, improvements underway because of Act 89, the state’s transportation funding plan, as well as projects scheduled through 2026 have a new resource: www.Projects.PennDOT.gov. The new Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) website... - Wilkes-Barre Times Leader
09-02-2015 Our view: Wolf brings voting into computer age
On Thursday, Gov. Tom Wolf announced that Pennsylvania residents can now register to vote online. Pennsylvania is the 23rd state to approve online voter registration, employing a digital tool many of us use every day. Erie County government nimbly responded to the news, with a banner headline... - Erie Times-News
09-02-2015 PennDOT insists on 'wasting money': Letters to the editor
Once again, we have a situation in which the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation insists on wasting money to correct a problem that does not exist. Any delays at Route 5 and Millfair Road can be fixed by moving the existing traffic signal from Garlock Drive to Millfair Road. I use Millfair... - Erie Times-News
09-02-2015 The vote is in: Limit roadside memorials | Your comments
Is there a reasonable expiration date for roadside memorials — and should municipalities enforce it? That question arose in the last few weeks, when the family of Richard Scheuermann III — who was killed by police last year at the corner of 13th and Spring Garden streets in Easton... - Easton Express-Times
09-02-2015 Work continues at Murtland Avenue interchange on I-70
The beams for the bridge that carries Interstate 70 over Route 19 are down and being sandblasted so they can be reset later this month as work continues on the construction of the diverging diamond interchange at the Murtland Avenue exit of Interstate 70 in South Strabane Township.... - Washington Observer-Reporter
09-02-2015 Editorial: Press clothes, not passengers
Anyone who has flown in recent years knows much of the joy has drained from the experience. Certainly additional time for security checks has made flying a drag. But seat size! Airlines have been shrinking seats for economy-class passengers even as they make first-class and business-class travel more... - Pocono Record
09-02-2015 Let's salute those other than politicians
Franklin Gowen. James Cameron. Lawton Shroyer. Henry Lark. Claude Kehler. Merle
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
Phillips. The names of these and other distinguished gentlemen, rest their souls, are affixed to various towns, parks, buildings and other public facilities in Northumberland County. The tributes, so far as we know, were well earned.... - Shamokin News-Item
09-02-2015 Police, PennDOT cracking down on impaired driving through Labor Day
As part of a focus on reducing drug- and alcohol-related crashes, PennDOT, state police and municipal police are taking part in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement initiative through Labor Day. During last year's Labor Day weekend, there were 144 alcohol-related... - Sharon Herald
09-02-2015 Law enforcement aims to reduce crashes over Labor Day weekend
Harrisburg — As part of a focus on reducing drug- and alcohol-related crashes, PennDOT, state police and municipal police will take part in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement initiative through Labor Day. “Even though the number of people killed in drug- and alcohol-related... - Titusville Herald
09-02-2015 New Philly Rep doesn't want you to know the names of cops who shoot civilians:
Wednesday Morning Coffee Good Wednesday Morning, Fellow Seekers. Freshly elected state Rep. Martina White, R-Philadelphia, doesn't think you have the right to know the names and identifying information of cops who shoot civilians in the line of duty -- unless they're charged with a crime.... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-02-2015 Google’s Driverless Cars Run Into Problem: Cars With Drivers
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Google, a leader in efforts to create driverless cars, has run into an odd safety conundrum: humans.Last month, as one of Google’s self-driving cars approached a crosswalk, it did what it was supposed to do when it slowed to allow a pedestrian to cross,... - New York Times
09-02-2015 Uber Rebuffed by Judge in Ruling on Drivers’ Suit
A federal judge granted class-action status on Tuesday to a lawsuit that questions the employment classification of Uber drivers, paving the way for a legal challenge that could strike at the heart of the ride-hailing company’s business model. The ruling will allow a jury to decide whether some Uber drivers should be... - New York Times
09-02-2015 Ford and Fiat Chrysler Post Surprising Sales Gains in August
Even as auto sales have returned to prerecession levels, one kind of vehicle has been left behind: the family sedan. Overall sales of passenger cars fell by 10 percent in August compared with the same period a year ago, to less than 690,000 sold in the United States,... - New York Times
09-02-2015 Is Pennsylvania really this lenient on high-risk drivers?
On Tuesday, we reported on a Bankrate.com study that found Pennsylvania was in the middle of the pack when it comes to the "best states for drivers." The study looked at crashes, auto thefts, car repairs, commute times and gas and insurance costs. Meanwhile, another driving-related study has found our state, well, pretty... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal
09-02-2015 Lowest gas prices in a decade as motorists hit the road for Labor Day weekend
Low gasoline prices have made it a good summer for a road trip. With Labor Day gas prices the lowest they’ve been in over a decade, the unofficial end of summer is proving to be a great time to get away. In Lancaster on Tuesday, the average price for a gallon of regular unleaded... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal
09-02-2015 PennDOT, police plan Labor Day DUI-enforcement effort
PennDOT, state police and municipal police are taking part in a "Drive Sober or Get Pulled
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
Over" campaign for Labor Day weekend. PennDOT spokesman Gene Blaum said that last year over Labor Day weekend, there were 144 alcohol-related crashes that resulted in 16 deaths. There... - Levittown Bucks County Courier Times
09-02-2015 Wolf nominates ex-state revenue official to serve on Turnpike Commission
HARRISBURG -- Gov. Tom Wolf has nominated a former Department of Revenue official, Barry Drew, to serve on the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission. Mr. Drew served as deputy secretary of administration in the Department of Revenue from 1995 until 2011, according to the governor's office. Before... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
09-02-2015 State Police release arrests of DUI suspects
Staff Report According to the Pennsylvania State Police at Embreeville, the following individuals have been cited for driving under the influence: Rosalie Euker, 50, was arrested on Campus Drive in West Bradford Township. Oleksii Prazdnikov, 30 of Elverson, was arrested on North Manor Road in... - West Chester Daily Local News
09-02-2015 Midstate vehicle leasing company to pay $12,500 fine: Attorney General's office
A midstate automobile business will pay a $12,500 fine for leasing vehicles "that needed considerable amounts of repair work and used a lease agreement that did not comply with federal law," according to the Pennsylvania Attorney General's office. Credit Connection Auto Sales, Inc., which operates lease-to-own locations... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-02-2015 Labor Day travel: What to expect this year
This year, Labor Day, Sept. 7, falls as late as possible on the calendar, with schools in session and fall sports in full swing. For the most up-to-date travel information, go to PennLive.com/travel. It's the last big holiday of the summer, but in terms of numbers of... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-02-2015 Wolf nominates former revenue colleague to Pennsylvania Turnpike post
Gov. Tom Wolf appointed a former colleague to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission on Wednesday. Barry Drew served as the Deputy Secretary of Administration at the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue from 1995 until 2011, under governors of both parties. His tenure coincided with Wolf's tenure as Secretary of... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-02-2015 Wolf nominates former revenue colleague to Pennsylvania Turnpike post
Gov. Tom Wolf appointed a former colleague to the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission on Wednesday. Barry Drew served as the Deputy Secretary of Administration at the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue from 1995 until 2011, under governors of both parties. His tenure coincided with Wolf's tenure as Secretary of... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-02-2015 Pittsburgh plan to share license plate data with police advances
Pittsburgh City Council on Wednesday advanced a bill that would permit the Pittsburgh Parking Authority to share license plate numbers with city police. The authority records license plates using vehicle-mounted cameras and scans thousands of plates daily in the search for parking violations.... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-01-2015 Delaware River Basin Commission Hearing & Meeting Notice for Sept. 15-16, 2015
(Press Release) 09-01-2015 Pittsburgh City Council might settle suit in deadly flood for $375K
Pittsburgh City Council will consider spending $375,000 to settle the city’s share of a lawsuit filed on behalf of the families of four people who died in a 2011 flood on Washington Boulevard. Legislation authorizing the settlements on behalf of Kimberly Griffith, 45,... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
09-01-2015 State's high court rules in favor of turnpike worker, will get another chance to prove his firing violated whistlebower laws A former Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission employee will get another chance to prove his 2008 firing violated whistleblower protection laws because the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has overturned a judgment against him. Ralph M. Bailets, formerly a manager of financial reporting and systems,... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-01-2015 Dunbar authority to sign railroad accord
The Dunbar Borough/Township Sanitary Authority agreed Monday to sign a license agreement with the Southwest Pennsylvania Railroad that will pave the way for the completion of a $5 million sewage extension project along Route 119. Solicitor Gretchen Mundorff told authority members the agreement was... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
09-01-2015 Citing track work, PATCO sets new schedule
New PATCO schedules will go into effect as of Sunday, according to the Delaware River Port Authority, as the agency works to finish its track refurbishment project. Through the end of October, the new schedule will return PATCO to normal operations Monday through Thursday morning, with a revised schedule from... - Philadelphia Inquirer
09-01-2015 Kiosk broken? You hold the bag
LOU BALCHER had a feeling about it. A premonition, you might say. After he parked his 2004 Mazda 6 on 12th Street between Walnut and Locust, on Monday, Aug. 3, he attempted to pay at a kiosk, which didn't accept his credit card. He tried another credit card. No luck.... - Philadelphia Daily News
09-01-2015 Citing track work, PATCO sets new schedule
New PATCO schedules will go into effect as of Sunday, according to the Delaware River Port Authority, as the agency works to finish its track refurbishment project. Through the end of October, the new schedule will return PATCO to normal operations Monday through Thursday morning, with a revised schedule from... - Philadelphia Inquirer
09-01-2015 Pennsylvania school takes second in International Envirothon: Outdoor Insider
A five-member team of high school students from Penncrest High School in Media, Delaware County, finished second in the 2015 International NCF-Envirothon, the largest high school environmental education competition that began earlier this year with more than 4,000 high schools competing at... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-01-2015 Pope's visit to St. Charles Borromeo Seminary expected to be rowdy, reverent
The last time a pope visited the St. Charles Borromeo Seminary just outside Philadelphia, he got a rousing, even rowdy, rock star welcome. "Viva! Viva Papa!" the seminarians shouted... - AP
09-01-2015 Lehigh Valley health events include Haunt 5K Zombie Run, Saucon Rail Trail 10K
HAUNT 5K ZOMBIE RUN AT DORNEY 1 Zombies will be unleashed at the Haunt 5K Zombie Run that kicks off at 11 p.m. Sept. 18 at Dorney Park. Zombie costumes are not required but recommended (especially if you want to win a prize). All running participants will be zombies. There will be "humans" entering... - Allentown Morning Call
09-01-2015 33 citations issued at DUI checkpoint in Exeter Township, police say
The Exeter Township Police Department conducted a DUI checkpoint Saturday night into Sunday morning that resulted in 33 citations being issued, police said. Officers made contact with 832 vehicles and handed out an informational pamphlet about the dangers of DUI to the operator of each vehicle.... - Reading Eagle
09-01-2015 Officers from 6 departments in Montgomery County issue over 650 citations
Over 650 citations were issued by six local police departments in Montgomery County over a
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
nearly two-month stretch as part of efforts to combat aggressive driving. Officers from the following departments participated: Pottstown and Collegeville boroughs; and Douglass, Lower Pottsgrove, New Hanover and West... - Reading Eagle
09-01-2015 PennDOT, local police departments ready for DUI enforcement initiative
PennDOT, state police and municipal police departments will be on the lookout for intoxicated drivers over the extended Labor Day holiday weekend, officials said Monday. The statewide effort is part of the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" enforcement initiative, which urges motorists to avoid intoxicated... - Reading Eagle
09-01-2015 Genesis Bicycles named 1 of America's best bike shops
Genesis Bicycles of Easton has collected another honor. The bike shop with the big, red bike on its roof has been named one of America's Best Bike Shops for 2015 by the National Bicycle Dealers Association. It's the third year in a row that Genesis has won the honor.... - Easton Express-Times
09-01-2015 Poll: When do roadside memorials wear out their welcome?
Some roadside memorials — crosses, signs and mementos that mark the site of a fatal car crash — endure for years. Others tend to run their course and are removed by those who created it or a third party, such as a property owner or a highway crew. A memorial at 13th and Spring Garden streets in Easton for Richard... - Easton Express-Times
09-01-2015 Fix the airport weather station
Barbara Miller of the Observer-Reporter wrote a story in July about the weather station at Washington County Airport being down. It’s still off line. Now, it’s been well over two months. If we had a week of record-setting temperatures, what happens to that record? Is it tracked in some other way, by some other source? What happens... - Washington Observer-Reporter
09-01-2015 Police across commonwealth to do targeted DUI enforcement through Labor Day
weekend State and municipal police throughout the commonwealth will be participating in the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" enforcement initiative through the holiday weekend. Last year's Labor Day weekend saw 144 alcohol-related crashes resulting in 16 deaths and 44 drug-related crashes resulting in three deaths, according... - York Daily
09-01-2015 Hotel planned for Harrisburg International Airport
Shaner Hotel Holdings' plans for a hotel at Harrisburg International Airport got a boost when the Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority approved having its staff enter into a ground lease with the State College-based company. Shaner wants to develop a hotel connected by a pedestrian bridge to the... - York Daily
09-01-2015 PennDOT, police focus on reduction of drugged, alcohol-related crashes through Labor
Day HARRISBURG, Pa. - As part of a focus on reducing drug- and alcohol-related crashes, PennDOT, state police and municipal police will take part in the national "Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" enforcement initiative through Labor Day. "Even though the number of people killed in drug- and alcohol-related... - Towanda Daily Review
09-01-2015 Law enforcement aims to reduce crashes over Labor Day weekend
Harrisburg — As part of a focus on reducing drug- and alcohol-related crashes, PennDOT, state police and municipal police will take part in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement initiative through Labor Day. “Even though the number of people killed in drug- and alcohol-related... - Titusville Herald
09-01-2015 Needed service
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
Somerset County is fortunate to be in the center of the Great Allegheny Passage between Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C. People can bike or hike various sections of the former railroad system. For those wanting to ride a small section, people can travel one direction and... - Somerset Daily
09-01-2015 PennDOT says Washington Crossing work should be done by Applefest
PennDOT plans to have its work complete on the Washington Crossing Bridge by the end of September - just in time for Applefest. The bridge on Route 8 between Franklin and Oil City is safe to travel on while work is underway. Work began Aug. 15 on the five-span steel I-beam bridge that spans over... - Oil City Derrick
09-01-2015 Obama pledges faster action on new icebreakers to keep up in Arctic
President Obama said late Monday he would accelerate by two years plans to acquire a new icebreaker and would ask Congress for funds to build additional ones for the Coast Guard in an effort to keep up with ship traffic that is increasing as the Arctic waters off Alaska grow warmer.... - Washington Post
09-01-2015 Find out where Pennsylvania ranks among the best and worst states for drivers in the US
When it comes to the best and worst states for drivers in the U.S., Pennsylvania is middle-of-the-road. Bankrate.com’s annual list found the Keystone State in the 24th spot for the best state for drivers. The finance rate aggregator used six categories to rank the states. The... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal
09-01-2015 State Legislation Introduced To Regulate Uber And Lyft
A Pennsylvania state senator wants to permanently legalize transportation network companies like Uber and Lyft throughout the Commonwealth, including Philadelphia. Senator Carmera Bartolotta, whose district is in southwestern Pa, says these companies are operating under a two-year authority granted by the... - KYW News Radio 1060
09-01-2015 PennDOT, police to focus on reducing DUI crashes over Labor Day weekend
As part of a focus on reducing drug- and alcohol-related crashes, PennDOT Tuesday announced that it, along with state police and municipal police, will take part in the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” enforcement initiative through Labor Day. “Even though the number of people killed in drug- and alcohol-related... - Carlisle Sentinel
09-01-2015 Pa. Supreme Court revives lawsuit by 'whistleblower' in Turnpike 'pay-to-play' scandal
Months after the defendants in the "pay-to-play" scandal avoided jail terms, the state Supreme Court has revived a "whistleblower" lawsuit by a former Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission official who claims he was fired for reporting waste. The high court's ruling, issued this week, overturns a February 2014... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-01-2015 RiverLink Ferry to run during papal visit
The RiverLink Ferry will operate during this month's papal visit, shuttling passengers across the Delaware between Camden and Philadelphia. The Delaware River Waterfront Corp. says the ferry will have extended hours when Pope Francis is in town on Sept. 26 and 27, running from 7:30 a.m. to... - Philadelphia Inquirer
09-01-2015 First hotel is coming to Harrisburg International Airport
Travelers to Harrisburg International Airport will finally have the option of not having to leave the property to stay overnight, as plans for a hotel move forward. The board of Susquehanna Area Regional Airport Authority approved a lease last week with Shaner Hotel Group of State College, who wants to build a... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
09-01-2015 Pennsylvania Turnpike whistleblower lawsuit given new life
A former Pennsylvania Turnpike employee is getting another chance to pursue his claim that he
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was improperly fired in retaliation for blowing the whistle on agency practices... - AP 08-31-2015 PennDOT, Police Focus on Reduction of Drugged, Alcohol-Related Crashes thru....
(Press Release) 08-31-2015 Correction: PennDOT Schedules Meetings for Review of Update To Rail Plan
(Press Release) 08-31-2015 PennDOT Driver License, Photo Centers Closed For Labor Day
(Press Release) 08-31-2015 PennDOT Schedules Public Meetings for Review of Update To Statewide Rail Plan
(Press Release) 08-31-2015 PA Turnpike Commission Formal Telephone Meeting Agenda for September 1, 2015
(Press Release) 08-31-2015 Record-holding female motorcyclist to speak at Lincoln Highway event
When Stacey Bortz showed up to a motorcycle drag race with her custom Harley-Davidson, the reputation of the bike preceded her, as it had been owned by a male racer. “People were aware of how much power this bike had, and they really didn't expect a woman to come along and be able to ride it as well as the... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
08-31-2015 Two weekends, two officers killed in off-duty accidents
FOR THE SECOND consecutive weekend, the Philadelphia Police Department lost one of its officers in an off-duty traffic accident on city streets. Officer Lamar Poole was killed yesterday when his motorcycle collided with a driver who pulled out in front of him in Northeast Philadelphia.... - Philadelphia Daily News
08-31-2015 Coming down to earth: Pa. helicopter builders readjust
Lunch time is less busy at Little Anthony's Pizza in Coatesville this month than it was in June. "Thirty percent of the lunch crowd lost," owner Mark Madanat said. Many of those lost customers worked at nearby Sikorsky Global Helicopter, which this summer began shedding 720 employees over 12 months from its... - Philadelphia Inquirer
08-31-2015 PennDOT suspends major roadway construction for Pope's visit
PHILADELPHIA — Pennsylvania Transportation Department officials say they will halt work on major roadway construction projects in the Philadelphia area for Pope Francis' visit to the city in September... - AP
08-31-2015 Report: Road projects won't pollute Lehigh Valley air
Truck traffic will double and Route 22 may well be flowing at six lanes wide in the next 20 years, but that will not make it harder to breathe in the Lehigh Valley. That's the conclusion of a Lehigh Valley Planning Commission air quality report that, had it showed a rise in pollution, could have jeopardized the... - Allentown Morning Call
08-31-2015 Recharged Tesla Motors proposing station in South Whitehall
UPDATE: Tesla Motors' application in South Whitehall stalled until September Tesla Motors is slated to make a pitch this evening for a charging station in the Tilghman Square Shopping Center in South Whitehall. cComments @David-Allentown - The full driving range of my model is 265 miles.... - Allentown Morning Call
08-31-2015 Pedro A. Cortés: Time has come for online voter registration in Pennsylvania
Imagine if there were a way to save taxpayer money, fulfill an important role of government with
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
far greater accuracy and efficiency, and bring about increased participation in our democracy. There is such an innovation already in use in nearly two dozen other states... - Allentown Morning Call
08-31-2015 Opinions differ on danger presented by Coxton railroad bridge
Just how much of a risk is the crumbling Coxton railroad bridge owned by a company associated with jailed businessman Leo A. Glodzik III? It depends on whom you’re asking. The state Department of Environmental Protection says the crumbling span across the Susquehanna River between Duryea and Exeter Township is in... - Wilkes-Barre Times Leader
08-31-2015 Editorial: School officials should re-evaluate bus facility proposal
Perhaps school board members will find that they could renovate and expand the Kerr Road facility for something less than $3.4 million. Getty Images/iStockphoto | The Exeter School Board should look for a cheaper option to its $3.4 million bus facility plan.... - Reading Eagle
08-31-2015 Editorial: Basic modern wheels? Few such vehicles
Remember the full-page ads Volkswagen ran in the 1960s and 70s? As late as 1973, the German automaker featured a photo of the iconic bug-shaped vehicle with the bold-faced text “Under $2,000. Again.” That was for a new car, mind you. Back then, folks scrounging for... - Pocono Record
08-31-2015 Pa.'s governor is not exactly Air Wolf (YDR opinion)
Cheers to Gov. Tom Wolf for — so far, at least — exercising restraint in his use of the state plane. A recent Pennsylvania Independent report noted that the new governor has used the aircraft less than his predecessors. That's a good thing, because it costs a lot to operate the Beechcraft... - York Daily
08-31-2015 White roses and thorns (YDR opinion)
WHITE ROSES >> And good luck to the amazing Red Land Little League team as it plays today for the U.S. championship and a slot in the World Series final. What a wonderful story this has been. We're in awe of the northern York County team's poise and skill. Go, Red Land!... - York Daily
08-31-2015 Hats off to PennDOT
August 31, 2015 Hats off to PennDOT and all of the associated contractors who fixed SR015 between the Third St exit and the Foy Ave exit! Yes, it was an inconvenience to all motorists for a number of months, but i... more »» - Williamsport Sun-Gazette
08-31-2015 SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority fulfilling 30-year mission
August 30, 2015 For over 30 years, the SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority (JRA) has been a self-sustaining engine of economic development for central Pennsylvania. more »» - Williamsport Sun-Gazette
08-31-2015 CCC celebrates 82nd anniversary with ceremony
August 31, 2015 The Civilian Conservation Corps built tens of thousands of bridges, over 800 state parks, 4,622 fish-rearing ponds and planted 45 million trees and shrubs between 1933 and 1942. more »» - Warren Times Observer
08-31-2015 Spring House Village Shopping Center plans in Lower Gwynedd move forward
With consideration to traffic, landscape and other major concerns, a preliminary final land development plan was unanimously approved by the board of supervisors at the July 28 meeting. In the past, Gwynedd Hunt residents have voiced concern regarding the lack... - Lebanon Daily News
08-31-2015 Google broadens its self-driving car tests in Austin
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
Google is expanding its self-driving car tests in Austin, and will begin testing its prototype in the city in the next few weeks. Earlier this summer Google brought a couple of self-driving Lexus RX 450h SUVs to Austin. Until now, the company was only testing its prototype near... - Washington Post
08-31-2015 Papal Visit: Delaware County, Upper Darby prepare for transportation flow
As the date approaches for Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia, Delaware County and municipal officials are ramping up their efforts to make certain those using public transportation, as well as those who opt to stay put in the county, all will have a smooth-moving weekend.... - Primos Delaware County Daily and Sunday Times
08-31-2015 PennDOT project information available online
Looking for information on state road projects? Now anyone can find more information on the state Department of Transportation’s current and future construction projects through the year 2026 online. The state department has unveiled a new website with information and maps... - Pottsville Republican and Evening Herald
08-31-2015 LETTERS: Hazardous chemicals moved by rail
Recent articles about railroad safety and some deadly high-profile crashes underscore the need for more focus on existing safety practices and reinforced tank cars. However, I believe some very hazardous chemicals moved by rail are being overlooked by the continuing focus on crude oil.... - Pottstown Mercury
08-31-2015 Can common ground be found on trail hike?
August 28, 2015 It is in the spirit of healthy living and environmental stewardship that we hope “one of the largest trail events in the United States” — the Bald Eagle Megatransect or a race at the same location b... more »» - Lock Haven Express
08-31-2015 Safety Breaks at Interstate Rest Areas for the Labor Day Holiday
Dunmore – Motorists traveling through northeastern Pennsylvania are encouraged to take a safety break at interstate rest areas over the Labor Day holiday. Community groups will serve free coffee at rest areas through a program coordinated with PennDOT that’s designed to encourage drivers to take a... - Honesdale Wayne Independent
08-31-2015 Rabbit Transit hosting activities for Try Transit Month in Sept.
In a effort to encourage residents to try transit, Rabbit Transit will host multiple activities and events throughout September, which they're calling Try Transit Month. The transit company will be partnering with organizations including Commuter Services of Pennsylvania, Penn State York and TrueNorth Wellness... - York Dispatch
08-31-2015 Ten Of The World’s Largest Car Makers Face Major Lawsuit
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — A law suit is in the works from consumers who say 10 of the world’s largest car manufactures hid risks of carbon monoxide poisoning in more than 5 million vehicles equipped with keyless ignitions. The suit claims the deaths of the 13 people happened as a result of the... - KYW News Radio 1060
08-31-2015 No more excuses: Register (online) and vote, Pa.
THE ISSUE Gov. Tom Wolf’s administration launched online voter registration Thursday, making Pennsylvania the 23rd state to offer the service (you’re also now able to make changes to your voter record online, or request assistance at the polling place). Legislation to institute online... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal
08-31-2015 Traffic roundabouts coming to the Lehigh Valley
PennDOT has decided that it would be good for the Lehigh Valley if more motorists were driving in circles. State transportation officials have mapped out a plan to add more traffic roundabouts
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
through the region, in a move that's designed to be good for the environment, safety and yes, even traffic flow.... - Allentown Morning Call
08-31-2015 Gas prices edge closer to $2 a gallon
GasBuddy says gas prices "will move lower again this week." "Nationally, gas prices saw their largest weekly drop of the year," said Patrick DeHaan, GasBuddy senior petroleum analyst. "Prices moved lower in all but one state, Utah, with plunges at the pump throughout the Great Lakes as a result of BP's Whiting, Indiana refinery... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
08-30-2015 Bicyclists test out roll-on train service for Amtrak
At 5 a.m. Friday, six bicycles and their riders were on the Penn Station platform in Downtown Pittsburgh, ready to roll onto the Capitol Limited Train 30. In the early-morning darkness, the bikes went up a ramp to the last car on the train, were flipped vertical and coaxed into front-wheel hooks, then... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
08-30-2015 Pittsburgh seeking money for transit link between Oakland, Hazelwood development site
Pittsburgh officials hope to advance plans for a new transportation corridor linking Oakland with the city’s biggest undeveloped parcel, the former LTV Steel site on the Monongahela River. A plan embraced in 2009 by Bill Peduto, then a city councilman and now... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
08-30-2015 Asides: a paintball land dispute, a large gift to CMU, a Capitol Limited improvement for
bicyclists A LEGAL FIGHT over paintball is proving much more challenging than the game that’s played in the woods. For 26 years, Neil “Buddy” Wright has been running paintball games on land near the Homestead Grays Bridge in Squirrel Hill even though he’s not the land owner. That would be the... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
08-30-2015 Port Authority's plan for car-free communities slow to bear fruit
Cars fill the parking lot in front of the Castle Shannon light-rail stop on weekdays, giving more than 500 suburban commuters access to Pittsburgh without the hassle of driving and parking Downtown. Port Authority of Allegheny County officials hope that, in a few years,... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
08-30-2015 Exclusive to the Trib: Lift the oil export ban? Think again
A new report by the Appalachian Oil and Natural Gas Consortium suggests that the amount of recoverable oil and gas in the Utica oil prospect (play) — which includes Pennsylvania, Kentucky, New York, Ohio and West Virginia — is much larger than anticipated and is comparable to the... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
08-30-2015 TSA takes a baby's milk
NEXT MONTH, hundreds of thousands of pilgrims will flock like papal doves to Philly for the World Meeting of Families. Many will fly into and out of Philly International Airport. Some will have babies in tow, and those babies will get hungry on their flights back home.... - Philadelphia Daily News
08-30-2015 Cycling program aims to put students on the path to good health
Waffiyyah Murray doesn't often come across a kid who doesn't want to ride a bike. But parents are often concerned about safety, especially in congested parts of Philadelphia. Nationwide, the number of students walking and biking to school has steadily declined, from 41 percent in 1969 to 13 percent in 2001, according... - Philadelphia Inquirer
08-30-2015 PPA seeks $300,000 in fines from UberX
The Philadelphia Parking Authority opened a new legal front against the taxi service UberX on Friday, seeking about $300,000 in fines - about $1,000 a day for the last 10 months - for illegally
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
operating a taxi service in the city. The complaint, filed in a PPA administrative law court, also seeks to have... - Philadelphia Inquirer
08-30-2015 Northampton County top destination for Monroe commuters, report shows
Nearly 40 percent of Monroe County's workforce — an estimated 29,255 people — commutes to work outside the county, according to a recent U.S. Census Bureau report.But compare that to Pike County, where 61 percent of the county's 23,000 workforce travels outside the county for work.... - Allentown Morning Call
08-30-2015 Shell Chemicals starts building bridge over Route 18 in Potter Township
Shell Chemicals has started building a bridge over Route 18 that will allow construction crews to haul dirt from one side of Route 18 to the other without disrupting traffic. However, the bridge will remain after the construction phase ends as cracker plant employees are expected to use it for entrance and exits from... - Beaver County Times
08-30-2015 Residents' opinions split on Route 119 safety improvement project in Bullskin, Upper
Tyrone townships EVERSON — About 100 people, some for and some against a conceptual plan to eliminate two intersections on Route 119 with a history of fatal accidents, attended a meeting on Thursday to voice opinions and to ask questions about the project. - Uniontown Herald-Standard
08-30-2015 Amtrak to offer expanded bike service on Pittsburgh route
Amtrak is about to offer roll-on bicycle service on a route that passes through Pittsburgh... - AP 08-30-2015 As self-driving cars come to more states, regulators take a back seat
When self-driving cars begin zipping through Northern Virginia this year, they won’t need any special registration, and the testers sitting behind the wheel won’t need a special license. In the eyes of the law, they’ll be regular cars. Virginia is one of a handful of states seeking to attract the potentially... - Washington Post
08-28-2015 Rep. David Parker - Weekly Roundup for August 28, 2015
(Press Release) 08-28-2015 PoliticsPA: State Launches Online Voter Registration
(Press Release) 08-28-2015 Pa. Turnpike Celebrates Final Service Plaza Makeover with Valley Forge Ribbon...
(Press Release) 08-28-2015 PHIA: PennDOT's August Lettings Top $83 Million
(Press Release) 08-28-2015 SEPTA Gets You Closer to the Pope
(Press Release) 08-28-2015 Rep. Brett Miller - Weekly Roundup for August 28, 2015
(Press Release) 08-28-2015 Amtrak ready to allow roll-on bike service between Pittsburgh, D.C.
After years of promising it, Amtrak is about to offer roll-on bicycle service on the Capitol Limited route that passes through Pittsburgh. With two premier bike trails parallel to the route, enthusiasts and bicycle organizations have long pressed the railroad to add the service. Currently,... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
08-28-2015 Residents concerned over cuts to Westmoreland County shared ride service Several senior citizens who depend on Westmoreland County Transit Authority’s shared ride service said recent cuts to the program hurt. They brought their concerns to an open house hosted by the authority last week at the Transit Authority headquarters on Bell Way in Greensburg..... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
08-28-2015 Residents concerned over cuts to Westmoreland County shared ride service
Several senior citizens who depend on Westmoreland County Transit Authority’s shared ride service said recent cuts to the program hurt. They brought their concerns to an open house hosted by the authority last week at the Transit Authority headquarters on Bell Way in Greensburg..... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
08-28-2015 Parking smart: A phone app can soon buy drivers extra time
With the introduction of electronic parking meters in Pittsburgh, the ritual of fumbling for quarters at the curb has fallen by the wayside. Being able to pay for parking with credit and debit cards has eased the hassle, but not completely. There’s still the inevitable return trip to... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
08-28-2015 Wal-Mart begins construction of store in Moon
Wal-Mart is building a store on University Boulevard in Moon now that PennDOT has dismissed residents' appeal of the project's highway occupancy permit. An announcement posted Thursday on the township's website said Wal-Mart started construction on a 150,000-square-foot Supercenter on the site of... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
08-28-2015 PennDOT outlines Route 119 plan
Larry Calley has seen his share of accidents on the section of Route 119 between Kingview and McClure roads in northern Fayette County. Calley, who operated a towing business in that area until 2011, said something needs to be done to reduce crashes on the stretch in Bullskin and... - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
08-28-2015 SEPTA: If you want to see Pope Francis, we've got your ticket
IF YOU WANT to see Pope Francis but didn't play the SEPTA Regional Rail pass lottery earlier this month because you didn't think you had a chance - think again. There are plenty of those one-day passes still available for the pope's Sept. 26 and 27 visit, SEPTA general manager Joseph Casey said yesterday.... - Philadelphia Daily News
08-28-2015 Plenty of SEPTA train tickets available for Pope Francis weekend
Lehigh Valley residents hoping to take the train into Philadelphia on the weekend Pope Francis is in town would be forgiven if they crossed that option off the list when demand crashed SEPTA's computer servers minutes after it put the passes on sale last month.... - Allentown Morning Call
08-28-2015 Recharged Tesla Motors proposing station in South Whitehall
UPDATE: Tesla Motors' application in South Whitehall stalled until September Tesla Motors is slated to make a pitch this evening for a charging station in the Tilghman Square Shopping Center in South Whitehall. cComments @David-Allentown - The full driving range of my model is 265 miles.... - Allentown Morning Call
08-28-2015 St. Luke's marks milestone in $34 million road project
St. Luke's University Health Network, along with local and state officials, celebrated completion Thursday of work along a 1-mile stretch of busy Freemansburg Avenue, and speakers used the occasion to note how it will help drive the economy along the Route 33 corridor that cuts through the... - Allentown Morning Call
08-28-2015 Pennsylvania's new online voter registration launched
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
HARRISBURG, Pa. — Gov. Tom Wolf announced Thursday that Pennsylvania is now the 23rd state in the country to provide online voter registration. . - AP
08-28-2015 State launches online voter registration to increase efficiency and offer convenience
HARRISBURG — Gov. Tom Wolf and Secretary of State Pedro Cortés today announced that Pennsylvania is the latest state to launch the convenient option of registering online to vote. The online registration application, hosted by the Department of State, is now available for use by eligible citizens.... - Wilkes-Barre Times Leader
08-28-2015 Residents' opinions split on Route 119 safety improvement project in Bullskin, Upper
Tyrone townships EVERSON — About 100 people, some for and some against a conceptual plan to eliminate two intersections on Route 119 with a history of fatal accidents, attended a meeting on Thursday to voice opinions and to ask questions about the project. - Uniontown Herald-Standard
08-28-2015 County officials welcome online voter registration in Pennsylvania
Within the first three hours of going live, Pennsylvania's new online voter registration system had logged 200 registrants. Officials conservatively estimated the state would top out at 300 online voter registrations, which is not bad for a social media campaign without a... - Reading Eagle
08-28-2015 Q&A: What you need to know about Pennsylvania's online voter registration system
Gov. Tom Wolf on Thursday unveiled a new system that will allow prospective voters to register online. The Department of State responded to some anticipated questions: How do I register online? TODAY'S SPONSOR: Fill out the voter registration application at register.votesPA.com.... - Reading Eagle
08-28-2015 Between now and Oct. 5, Pennsylvanians can register online to vote
By early afternoon Thursday, the Washington County Elections Office received six online registrations from voters, but two were lacking necessary signatures. Those six registrations – some new and another, a change of information, arrived just hours after Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf and... - Washington Observer-Reporter
08-28-2015 Slow down on the roads
The Observer-Reporter’s Aug. 21 editorial on the National Safety Council’s finding that highway fatalities are projected to rise 25 percent this year noted that two main reasons are speeding, which we can take measures to control, and distracted driving, which is a lot more... - Washington Observer-Reporter
08-28-2015 Back on the bus: Reinforce school bus safety with your children
For many, it’s that time of year when the fun of summer time trips in the family van is quickly replaced by the sights and sounds of yellow school buses at just about every corner in the neighborhood. With the opening of school comes bus travel and — for parents and... - Pocono Record
08-28-2015 Projects to address York County road congestion underway or planned
Transportation officials say they are working to reduce congestion throughout York County. Some projects to address the problem were recently completed, are underway or are planned for the future, said Beth Nidam Artman, a senior planner with the York County Planning Commission.... - York Daily
08-28-2015 Election director welcomes online voter registration
SUNBURY - Northum-berland County's director of elections welcomes online registration for Pennsylvania voters, something that's been a long time coming. "I think it's wonderful," Alisha Herb said Thursday of the state's launch of Internet-based registration. "This is going to be so
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PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
much easier."... - Shamokin News-Item 08-28-2015 PennDOT gives new access to road work information
Pennsylvanians looking for information on construction projects, improvements under way because of Act 89, the state’s transportation funding plan and projects scheduled through 2026 have a new resource — www.Projects.PennDOT.gov. HARRISBURG Pennsylvanians looking for information on construction projects,... - Waynesboro Record Herald
08-28-2015 DUIs major problem over Labor Day Weekend
Law enforcement has an eye to both drug and alcohol DUIs FRANKLIN — Law enforcement agencies statewide are mobilizing to keep alcohol- and drug-impaired drivers off the roads in the days leading up to the Sept. 7 Labor Day holiday. As part of the mobilization, state and local police held a press... - Titusville Herald
08-28-2015 Increase in drug-related DUI crashes concerns law enforcement
Police are employing specially trained drug experts to help crack down on the number of drug-related crashes in the area over the Labor Day holiday. "In Pennsylvania, driving under the influence remains a top safety issue, especially during the holidays," PennDOT said in a press release.... - Oil City Derrick
08-28-2015 The Heron’s Nest: Sales of papal regional rail passes not exactly heavenly
What if they gave a papal Mass and nobody came? Well, I don’t think that’s going to happen. Still, I have to admit I was startled at yesterday’s update from SEPTA, in particular the numbers when it comes to sales of those special regional rail passes for the weekend of the visit by Pope Francis in late September. Remember, you... - Primos Delaware County Daily and Sunday Times
08-28-2015 The Heron’s Nest: Daily Numbers for Friday, Aug. 28
The Daily Numbers: 50,000 tickets for the regional rails for Saturday, Sept. 26 for pope visit. 60,000 tickets sold for Sunday. 175,000 tickets SEPTA had planned to sell for both days. 200,000 tickets still available. Advertisement 600 Pa. National Guard troops being sought by Montgomery County for help... - Primos Delaware County Daily and Sunday Times
08-28-2015 SEPTA reports lots of papal regional rail passes remain
PHILADELPHIA >> Remember all those stories about massive crowds packing SEPTA’s regional rail lines headed into the city for the two-day visit of Pope Francis in late September. Maybe not. SEPTA Thursday offered an update on sales of those special papal passes... - Primos Delaware County Daily and Sunday Times
08-28-2015 Plymouth Road bridge opens four days ahead of schedule in Plymouth Township
PLYMOUTH >> Officials from PennDOT, Plymouth and Whitemarsh townships joined Pa. Secretary of Transportation Leslie Richards and State Sen. Vincent Hughes for a ribbon cutting ceremony celebrating the opening of the new Plymouth Road bridge. The bridge spans Plymouth Creek and connects... - Norristown Times Herald
08-28-2015 Lebanon Valley College to see $20M health professions building
ANNVILLE >> In a society where change is the constant, institutions of higher learning must adequately address the needs and wants of students to remain successful. Combining tradition from its 149 years of existence with a decisive plan for the future will make Lebanon Valley College a stronger,... - Lebanon Daily News
08-28-2015 Nulton Aviation approved to buy MTT Aviation Services, take over fixed base opreations
at Johnstown-Cambria County Airport Johnstown airport leaders have been encouraged by their meetings with Nulton Aviation and are ready to allow the startup to take over fixed base operations. Although terms are still being
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
negotiated, Johnstown-Cambria County Airport Authority this week voted to approve the sale of MTT?Aviation Services to... - Johnstown Tribune-Democrat
08-28-2015 Fort Pitt Tunnel, Parkway West part of another orange barrel weekend
The closure of the outbound Fort Pitt Tunnel and Parkway West is part of a big weekend of traffic restrictions that coincide with a Pirates home series. The parkway closures will occur at 11 tonight or one hour after the end of the Pirates game, whichever is later, and continue through 6 a.m. Monday.... - Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
08-28-2015 SEPTA Releases Bus Service Adjustments For Papal Visit
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – SEPTA announced Thursday afternoon that dozens of bus routes will be adjusted during the Papal visit to accommodate increased capacity and maximum operations while traffic restrictions are enforced. Officials say service will run on weekday schedules on several of major... - KYW News Radio 1060
08-28-2015 More Than 100K SEPTA Papal Passes Still Available
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – With less than a month to go until Pope Francis’ arrival in Philadelphia, Septa has more than 100,000 one-day Regional Rail passes available for the big weekend. The agency made around 200,000 passes available each day, but after a failed ticket sales launch, a lottery and a few weeks of in-person sales,... - KYW News Radio 1060
08-28-2015 More Than 100K SEPTA Papal Passes Still Available
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – With less than a month to go until Pope Francis’ arrival in Philadelphia, Septa has more than 100,000 one-day Regional Rail passes available for the big weekend. The agency made around 200,000 passes available each day, but after a failed ticket sales launch, a lottery and a few weeks of in-person sales,... - KYW News Radio 1060
08-28-2015 Online voter registration launches in Pennsylvania; 11 new voters put it to use in
Lancaster County Nearly a dozen people in Lancaster County made swift use of the state’s new online voter registration system. “We’ve only had three so far, so it’s a little early to say how much time this will save us,” Randall Wenger, chief clerk of the county Board of Elections and chief registrar of the county Registration... - Lancaster Intelligencer Journal
08-28-2015 SEPTA: Only one-quarter of rail passes for papal visit sold in Bucks
Once believed to be the hottest ticket in town, SEPTA has sold a little more than 100,000 of the 350,000 special rail passes for the much anticipate Philadelphia weekend visit of Pope Francis next month. At a press conference Thursday, the Philadelphia transit agency announced... - Levittown Intelligencer
08-28-2015 Business Travelers Warming Up to Car-Sharing
IN March, William Petz departed from his usual routine of logging on to Travelocity or Orbitz to rent a car from Budget or Hertz while traveling on business. A Facebook posting had caught his eye: It was for a rental company called Silvercar, which offered a single kind of car — an Audi A4. It came... - New York Times
08-28-2015 Dedicating time and resources to safety on our nation’s trains
COME JANUARY, your commuter train might stop running. That’s because railways across the country might have to suspend operations should they fail to meet an end-of-year congressional deadline for installing safety technology — a possibility that is looking increasingly likely for many... - Washington Post
08-28-2015 West Mifflin Community Day returns to airport grounds
West Mifflin's annual Community Day returns to Allegheny County Airport from stops in recent years at Century III Mall. “There will be many attractions there as well as (Mayor Chris
September 4, 2015
PLS’s Transportation Recap – Copyright 2015 – Pennsylvania Legislative Services – www.mypls.com
Kelly's) presentation of citizen and business of the year awards,” borough Recreation Director Tony DiCenzo said about the noon to 6 p.m. Saturday... - McKeesport Daily News
08-28-2015 Can common ground be found on trail hike?
August 28, 2015 It is in the spirit of healthy living and environmental stewardship that we hope “one of the largest trail events in the United States” — the Bald Eagle Megatransect or a race at the same location b... more »» - Lock Haven Express
08-28-2015 Pennsylvania taxpayers spent $357K to fly governors on state plane since 2010
By Andrew Staub, PA Independent Gov. Tom Wolf likes to get out and about, but he doesn't always drive the Jeep that has given him a folksy appeal during his campaign and first year in office. Pennsylvania is a large state - it's more than 283 miles long and up to 160... - Hanover Evening Sun
08-28-2015 PennDOT to replace bridges
August 28, 2015 PennDOT will replace a pair of structurally deficient city bridges next summer. One carries 10th Street over Brush Run in an area between Pleasant Valley and Valley View boulevard. more »» - Altoona Mirror
08-28-2015 Cumberland County to expedite Leidigh Bridge project
One of Cumberland County’s aging bridges may have jumped to the front of the line for replacement thanks in large part to heavy outcry about a recent weight restriction. “I’ve received more calls on this bridge than practically any other bridge,” the county’s director of planning Kirk Stoner said... - Carlisle Sentinel
08-28-2015 Prelim land plans, letter of support approved in South Middleton
The Army Heritage Education Center Foundation’s Executive Director Mike Perry’s quest into South Middleton Township in search of support for a proposed construction project, and Goodman-Birtcher’s drive to close on preliminary subdivision land development plans worked out for both parties... - Carlisle Sentinel
08-28-2015 Pay-per-mile car insurance coming to disrupt traditional model in Pennsylvania
A San Francisco-based car insurance company is bringing its services — described by its CEO as "disruptive" — to Pennsylvania. Metromile, the nation's only pay-per-mile car insurance model, officially launched on Thursday in Pennsylvania, the sixth state in which the company... - York Dispatch
08-28-2015 Schools must bus students with divorced parents from both exes' homes, Pa. Supreme
Court rules School districts are legally obligated to provide bus service to both homes of students whose parents are divorced and have shared custody arrangements, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court has ruled. The state's highest court made that call this week in deciding against... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
08-28-2015 Harrisburg street parking meters bringing in more cash than expected this year
HARRISBURG - Revenue from street parking meters in Harrisburg is coming in higher than projected this year, which means the city hasn't had to pay a dime for the rate reductions that went into effect in April. Mayor Eric Papenfuse encouraged parking officials to shave $1 off the... - Harrisburg Patriot-News
