Keystone Transportation Funding Coalition reacts to Corbett plan

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Members of the Keystone Transportation Funding Coalition expressed positive reactions toward Gov. Tom Corbett's transportation funding initiative.

"Governor Corbett's proposal represents a major step toward addressing Pennsylvania's transportation funding needs in a comprehensive way," said George Wolff, the coalition's founder.  "That's what brought this diverse group together, and we'll continue to work in support of this important issue."

Coalition members include statewide and local business groups, labor unions, farm organizations, AARP, bicycle and pedestrian advocates, land-use advocates, air and seaport organizations, associations representing local governments, travel and tourism organizations, environmental advocates, freight and passenger rail organizations and truck freight haulers. 

Following are statements of various other coalition members:

David Patti, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Business Council:  "They've framed it well in terms of competitiveness and safety.  By phasing in the revenue increases, it minimizes the initial impact, but the bottom line is that ultimately it brings in $1.5 billion to $1.7 billion.  Then with efficiencies at PennDOT, I think we can get there."

Vince Matteo, president and CEO of the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce:  "The Governor has rightly targeted a critical business issue in Pennsylvania – repair, maintenance and construction of our roads and bridges and we need to find new ways to fund this crucial element of doing business.  Being 'business friendly' is more than simply saying we want your business.  Showing that we mean it is critical and the governor seems to have come upon a unique way of doing just that without causing too much pain at the pump.  I look forward to working with the Governor, the legislature and all involved to solve this problem."

Robert Rockmaker, executive director of the Aviation Council of Pennsylvania:  "The foundation for a safe, well planned and executed transportation system is important for both the aviation industry and all modes of transportation in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. With the newly unveiled multi modal transportation plan, Governor Corbett continues to demonstrate vision which will allow Pennsylvania to be a leader in business, job creation and economic development.

David Black, president and CEO of the Harrisburg Regional Chamber of Commerce:  "It is much more than funding. It is cost-cutting by improving and modernizing the way the government side of transportation is done, while fulfilling a fundamental responsibility of government to maintain public infrastructure like roads, bridges, rail and air assets. Transportation is a big part of who we are in the Harrisburg region, and it's needed for commerce and for public safety. We know this is the start of the process, but we're supportive of the concepts outlined by Governor Corbett, Secretary Shoch and his transportation team, and we encourage broad-based support from the local business community as well as our legislative delegation."

For more information about the coalition, visit www.ReConnectPA.org.

SOURCE Keystone Transportation Funding Coalition