State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar | Pennsylvania 69th Legislative District
State Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar | Pennsylvania 69th Legislative District
The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) announced it is moving forward with a four-year preliminary engineering stage for a project that would cut through the Allegheny Mountain near the existing Turnpike tunnels. This decision comes despite repeated public opposition.
Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-Somerset) expressed his disapproval of the project in a statement:
"The plan to cut the Allegheny Mountain would cause irreparable harm to our region. Those who rely on the mountain for water supply through wells and natural springs – including Berlin Borough – could face immense peril due to contamination and scarcity. Endangering our daily necessities is unacceptable and is enough evidence alone to not move forward on this project.
"Additionally, our cherished way of life would be destroyed. Forest stands would be removed, and soil would be displaced to the point of no return. Our mountain is a testament to our rugged heritage and a symbol of who we are as a people. This proposal is simply unacceptable.
"That's why I am unequivocally opposed to this, and I stand by all efforts to stop this proposal. The PTC has the ability to expand with another tunnel instead of destroying an unbroken mountain chain."
Representative Carl Walker Metzgar69th DistrictPennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Nate Temple 717.260.6396
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