Metzgar Opposes Allegheny Mountain Realignment Project - Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission moving forward with plan
9/26/2024
HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) announced, despite repeated opposition by the public, that the agency is entering into a four-year preliminary engineering stage for a project that would put a 1,000 foot cut through the Allegheny Mountain near the existing Turnpike tunnels.

Rep. Carl Walker Metzgar (R-Somerset) released the following statement, highlighting his opposition to the project:

“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 Metzgar
69th District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives 

Media Contact:: Nate Temple
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ntemple@pahousegop.com
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