Department of Transportation
Questionable Actions with Bridge Tolling Plan
Senate Appropriations Committee members took strong issue the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) about its P3 bridge tolling initiative, which will charge drivers for using nine bridges throughout the state.
They pointed out that some of the contracts were awarded prior to the P3 resolution being adopted, indicating that decisions were being made before the Legislature had an opportunity to weigh in.
Lack of Engagement and Transparency
Members repeatedly underscored their displeasure with the lack of engagement and transparency in the unprecedented decision to institute tolling and stressed that PennDOT has not put together a solid platform for one of the state’s most important investments.
Senate Transportation Chair Wayne Langerholc, Jr. (R-35) wanted assurances from Secretary Yassmin Gramian that the department will consider other plans that are developed.