HARRISBURG — Sen. Cris Dush (R-Brookville) and Rep. Mike Armanini (R-DuBois) announced $625,000 in state funding has been awarded to the City of St. Marys in Elk County for construction of the new 120 Connector Project.
Upon completion, the 120 Connector will allow tractor trailer traffic to access State Route 120 without going through “The Diamond,” which forms in the modern-day center of downtown St. Marys.
“I am fully supportive of this major connector project because it holds the potential to permanently divert 70% percent of truck traffic away from The Diamond,” said Dush. “Much more than roadway reconstruction to alleviate more than 40 years of traffic congestion, the 120 Connector project will also result in a safer downtown and greater possibilities for economic development and job creation throughout Elk County and surrounding areas.”
“Tax dollars are to be invested and not wasted … that’s the mark of good stewardship,” Armanini added. “People can see their money at work when they drive downtown to shop, dine or go to work … that’s the definition of a true investment.”
The $625,000 grant was awarded through the Multimodal Transportation Fund administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. The fund was created to encourage economic development and ensure that a safe and reliable system of transportation is available to the residents of the commonwealth.
