HARRISBURG, Pa., Dec. 11 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The public is invited to comment on the Pennsylvania Intercity Passenger and Freight Rail Plan, which provides guidance for investing in future rail needs and potential ways to enhance passenger and freight rail development in the state, supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability.

"Passenger and freight rail are important infrastructure components in Pennsylvania and demand is growing for each of them," PennDOT Secretary Allen D. Biehler, P.E. said. "This plan will help us inventory our current infrastructure, future needs and facilitate cooperation between the two modes through future federal and state rail investments."

The final plan will serve as a planning document for federal and state rail investments within the commonwealth; create the base document for additional analyses of goods movement in other modes; and fulfill the requirements of the Railroad Safety Enhancement Act of 2008, State Rail Plans and the Pennsylvania Rail Freight Preservation and Improvement Act Comprehensive Rail Freight Study.

To view the draft plan, visit www.dot.state.pa.us and click on "Aviation & Rail Freight." Comment can be provided through Jan. 15, 2010 via online submission form or by mail to: Jennie A. Granger, AECOM Transportation, 2040 Linglestown Road, Suite 300, Harrisburg, PA 17110.

"Public feedback on this rail plan allows us to hear concerns and input, which is a vital step in the transportation planning process," Biehler said. "Also, the public can learn about where we are and what the future of passenger and goods movement in Pennsylvania could hold."

PennDOT developed this draft plan through a substantial partnership with public and private sector stakeholders, including carriers, shippers, developers, labor, private entities, and public agencies.

Media contact: Erin Waters, 717-783-8800

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

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http://www.dot.state.pa.us