With clear skies overhead, Pennsylvania’s Secretary of Transportation, Leslie S. Richards, visited the South Valley to talk about the new parkway project. The SVP has been a central component of plans to improve safety and reduce congestion along Middle Road, as well as to promote economic revitalization in the region. Earth Conservancy proposed the roadway back in 1995 in its original Land Use Plan, and has donated 70 acres of land towards the project, valued at over $1 million. Pictured, from left to right: 1.) PA Secretary of Transportation, Leslie Richards, discusses the benefits of the roundabouts that are included in the parkway’s design; 2.) State Senator John Yudichak emphasizes the importance of infrastructure in regional development; 3.) Mike Dziak, EC President & CEO, talks about the potential of the hundreds of acres of reclaimed mineland alongside the SVP; 4.) Tom Leary, President of Luzerne County Community College and member of EC’s Board of Directors, speaks to the impact the roadway will have on both students’ and residents’ safety.
