An important road project for Tyrone commuters who head to State College to work has been halted, after PENNDOT yesterday formerly called for work to stop in Patton Township.
According to Marla Fannin, a community relations director with PENNDOT, although earthmoving work has stopped, bridge work will continue along the new stretch of highway until a permanent solution to an acid rock drainage problem can be corrected.
“During excavation, we came across a larger amount of acidic material (Fool’s Gold) than we expected,” said Fannin, noting the find occurred in what is known as the “Skytop” area.
She said Fool’s Gold, in itself, is not acidic and doesn’t pose a threat to the local environment; however, when it’s exposed to oxygen then passed through water, an acid is formed that increases the Ph in affected water tables.
“We’re in the process of putting together a plan for DEP (state Department of Environmental Protection) to review,” said Fannin.
“Right now, the groups affected (PENNDOT, DEP, the state Fish and Boat Commission and Patton Township) are holding regular meetings to keep everyone up to speed as to where everything stands. Testing is on-going and we’re determined to find where the roots of the problems are.”
Fannin said a permanent plan for DEP approval is due by early may.
Fannin said the timeline for the project will most likely be affected after the permanent plan is put together.
