Public opinion sought during Route 31 Corridor meetings

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September 15, 2008

BY KECIA BAL The Tribune-Democrat Mon Sep 15, 2008, 10:13 PM EDT

SOMERSET — As developers eye the scenic properties, county and municipal leaders are looking to area residents to help shape the state Route 31 West Corridor.

Officials have scheduled the first of three town hall meetings for the public to voice concerns and ideas as part of a planning study of land use and development of the 10-mile corridor from the Somerset and Westmoreland county borders to the Somerset Township and Somerset Borough boundaries.

“We want to hear the public’s input,” said Christy Burnside DeMuth, project manager for the study conducted by Mackin Co. Engineering of Pittsburgh.

DeMuth said the expansion of water and sewage infrastructure there is expected to spur new development, along with the plans for $1 billion in improvements to Hidden Valley Four Seasons Resort and plans for an upscale gated community nearby.

The Buncher Co. of Pittsburgh, which owns the resort, took the first visible step toward setting up the gated community in the past month when work began for a sewage extension for the proposed homes.

Buncher executives have said it may take a decade to completely develop the 763-acre former game preserve.

The study should provide guidance to prepare for increased traffic and roadway safety and congestion. It also will outline ways to maintain the rural character of the region and help residents preserve their communities and natural environments.

Work began this summer on the corridor project and is expected to be complete by April or May, DeMuth said.

The open-house style meeting should provide a chance for residents and business owners to help mold a vision for the corridor, Somerset County Planning Commission Director Brad Zearfoss said.

A second meeting is to be held this winter or early next year.

If you go

What: Town hall meeting on the State Route 31 West Corridor study.

When: 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 23.

Where: Bakersville Volunteer Fire Department .

Info: Call project manager Christy Burnside DeMuth at (412) 788-0472.

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