HARRISBURG – Sen. Judy Ward (R-30), chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, held a hearing at the Railroaders Memorial Museum in Altoona to highlight the importance of infrastructure in rural Pennsylvania and how that connects to economic development.
“Infrastructure is the backbone of our economy,” Ward said. “Businesses depend on having a reliable and safe transportation network to move their goods to market. This hearing was an excellent opportunity to hear from stakeholders in transportation and economic development on how we can promote growth in rural Pennsylvania through efficient and effective infrastructure.”
The committee will receive testimony from several individuals across multiple stakeholder groups, including:
- Dr. Ron Darbeau, chancellor, Penn State Altoona
- Steve McKnight, president and CEO, Blair County Alliance
- Mike Carroll, secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
- Mike Siger, secretary, Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
- Dr. Kyle Kopko, executive director, Center for Rural Pennsylvania
- Tommy Nagle, vice president, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau
- Margaret Clark, manager of Government Affairs-Northeast, Amtrak
- Loni Martz Briner, president, Keystone State Railroad Association
- Tracy Plessinger, airport manager, Altoona-Blair County Airport
- David Heath, consultant, Aerium
Rural infrastructure has been a key focus of Ward and the Senate Transportation Committee this session, as the committee looks to put a spotlight on the transportation issues that specifically affect rural Pennsylvania. Along with members of the committee, Rep. Scott Barger (R-80) was also in attendance.
“Blair County is well positioned to be a key player in the transportation sector for the future, as it has an incredibly solid foundation on which to build,” Barger said. “We’re fortunate to live and work in communities built by the railroad so many years ago.”
Residents can follow Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and X @SenatorJWard for news about legislation and the 30th Senate District. Contact information for her district offices and other information can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com, and constituents also can sign up for her e-newsletter at SenatorJudyWard.com/enewsletters.
CONTACT: Nathan Akers 717-787-2421