Letter to the editor: Turnpike interchange will destroy picturesque Penn Township area

Regarding the article “Long-awaited Pa. Turnpike interchange in Penn Township set to become a reality” (Oct. 28, TribLIVE): I have lived in Penn Township since 1987. I have seen many changes in the community as well as significant tax increases. This includes new well pads placed near residential areas and two industrial parks located within a mile of my housing development, neither of which has resulted in any tax savings for residents.

I cannot believe the suggestion made in 2007 to build an interchange from the turnpike to Route 130 is scheduled to come to fruition in 2026. This interchange, which Commissioner Chuck Konkus touts as a boon for “commercial development” and an easement of taxes for local residents, will destroy yet another two-lane winding road in a picturesque residential township. Coincidently, the interchange will make the road to the local dump much easier to access when people want to dump trash from other states (as they have done in the past!).

This is not progress. It is another example of destruction of a residential area. Konkus may think commercial development is the way to go, but I would bet that most residents of this township would like to preserve the beauty and environment of the area rather than face increased traffic on a country road that will ultimately need more repairs because of the heavy traffic.

Since the commissioners don’t have the funds to repair all the roads in Penn Township now, I am sure they won’t have the money to repair 130 when the time comes.

Pat Duck

Penn Township, Westmoreland County