To date, the Turnpike has generated more than $1.17 billion in new funding for transportation projects. Over 50 years, the lease payments will equate to more than $83 billion under Act 44.
As authorized by Act 44, the Turnpike is seeking federal approval to toll I-80 by conducting comprehensive engineering, environmental, traffic, revenue, and economic impact studies along I-80. This includes a comprehensive public involvement program to gain a better understanding of the potential impacts and mitigation opportunities.
The Turnpike understands that this is not a done deal until federal approval is granted. Keep in mind, that the efforts to implement Act 44 in many respects mirror all public works projects. A major project, such as a new bridge or an expansion to an interstate is first authorized in the budget or PennDOT 12-year plan. Before any work is done, a series of reviews and studies are conducted to ensure that all aspects of the project are analyzed before final decisions are made.
By completing the studies necessary to get a fair determination from FHWA many questions will be answered and a clear path will be set for implementation.
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