Grell and Vance Oppose PennDOT's Clear-Cutting Project on I-81

HARRISBURG – Rep. Glen Grell (R-Cumberland) and Sen. Pat Vance (R-Cumberland/York) today called upon the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) to halt plans to clear-cut vegetation along Interstate 81 in Cumberland County.

In a joint letter to PennDOT, Grell and Vance cite examples where they have witnessed incidents of clear-cutting for no apparent reason.

"I appreciate and understand the need for tree removal where vegetation obstructs signage or poses a danger in a possible collision," Grell said. "But, clear-cutting all vegetation, regardless of where it is, appears to be normal operating procedures."

Grell and Vance noted in their letter, that in many areas, vegetation provides an aesthetic and protective barrier and buffer between the interstate highway and adjacent residential areas.

Along Interstate 81, particularly in East Pennsboro Township, residents in close proximity to the highway value the protective clusters of trees to reduce noise and to provide a protective barrier for potential automobile accidents.

"PennDOT needs to take into consideration the concerns of local residents when making such decisions," Vance said. "The department should direct the contractor, at least on this project, to remove only such vegetation as may be necessary to ensure a clear line of sight to existing highway signage."

Contact:

Tracy Polovick
Coordinator of Communications and Outreach
Office of Senator Vance
(717) 787-8524

Tim Eller
Office of Representative Glen Grell
(717) 260-6242