Reschenthaler Opposes Allegheny Mountain Realignment Turnpike Project Proposal
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chief Deputy Whip Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA) urged the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) to reconsider its plans regarding the Allegheny Mountain Realignment Project in Allegheny and Stonycreek Townships, Pennsylvania.
According to local officials and community stakeholders, the Gray Cut plan which includes constructing a 3.8-mile three lane roadway south of the existing tunnel would cause a groundwater loss that will negatively impact wetland and water sources. Thousands of businesses, organizations, and communities in Pennsylvania’s 14th Congressional District rely on the Laurel Highlands and its scenery to stimulate our region’s economy and foster a sense of community.
In the letter, Reschenthaler wrote: “I urge PTC to reconsider alternative plans in collaboration with the local community. It is critical that we do not jeopardize decades of work done by these stakeholders to make Somerset County a beautiful place to live, visit, and do business."
In November 2021, PTC commissioned a study that determined improvements to the Allegheny Tunnel in Somerset County were necessary. After exploring eight potential alternatives to address the needs, PTC chose the Gray Cut option despite concerns from the local community and burden on taxpayers and motorists.
Others opposed to the proposal include State Representative Carl Metzgar, Somerset County Commissioners, the Somerset County Conservancy, and the Municipal Authority of the Borough of Berlin, among other local organizations.
Read the full letter here.