The future use and development of
Route 30 is the subject of “How Will We Get There?” a public workshop on March 15th. Presented by
The Smart Growth Partnership of Westmoreland County (SGPWC), the free forum marks the third in a series designed to solidify a vision for a 40-mile stretch of the historic
Lincoln Highway, the primary east-west artery that links small cities and growing suburbs east of Pittsburgh. Participants may attend the meeting in Ligonier or Greensburg.
The goal is to collaboratively shape communities along Rte. 30 in ways that prevent rising housing prices, congestion and diminishing open space. A blueprint for economic growth, the plan recommends cost-conscious investment priorities, traffic flow solutions and multi-municipal design guidelines. “We’re a safe place for citizens and leaders to discuss the interface of land use and transportation--we want a broad stakeholder discussion,” says Alex Graziani, SGPWC’s executive director. “I think of roads like water sheds—it’s about the whole system.”
One hope is that the plan will serve as a national model for a safe, efficient and economically robust corridor. “It’s a unique approach; quite frankly, our pocket books are helping us rethink this--the traditional building our way out of it isn’t going to cut it,” says Graziani. “Development will occur where there’s good transportation.”
Plans call for mixed-use redevelopment in Jeannette, Greensburg and Latrobe. “It’s about using development we have for the good of the community--getting a longer life out of Route 30.” The plan addresses equity issues, weather, geography and funding challenges, and the need for capital improvements and new signage.
Writer: Jennifer Baron
Source: Alex Graziani
Image courtesy of the Smart Growth Partnership of Westmoreland County