Turnpike Slip Ramp

Letter to Governor Ridge

Dear Governor Ridge:

Congratulations on your reelection. You have served our state well and I welcome the opportunity to have you represent us for another term. Unfortunately, the purpose for my letter is to inform you of my concern over the proposed Turnpike Slip Ramp in or near Charlestown Township, Chester County. As frustrating as the proposed ramp is, the lack of open communication from the PA Turnpike Commission is even worse.

Charlestown Township is considered by the Chester County Planning Commission to be a predominately rural township. Unfortunately at the edge of the township is the Great Valley Corporate Center and while it contributes substantially to our tax base many of those employed there do not live in or otherwise contribute to our community with the exception of increased traffic. While I can understand the desire to reduce the traffic congestion to and from the Corporate Center at what point does the turnpike slip ramp facilitate additional traffic to an already overcrowded rural landscape?

The Chester County Commissioners and the Chester County Planning Commission as well as our own Board of Supervisors and Planning Commission have worked very hard to develop land planning tools that will ensure the township grows in a manageable manner. The overall goal of preserving open space and the elimination of suburban sprawl will be severely compromised if this interchange is permitted. It is very frustrating to watch dedicated boards develop zoning and land planning tools to preserve and pass on a legacy to future generations only to have commercial development benefit from their efforts. Commerce and industry are critical to the health of the community, however, at what point do they become responsible for the deterioration of the very things that attracted them to the community?

In closing, I thank you for your time and urge you to put an end to a project that is guaranteed to destroy another rural community in Southeastern Pennsylvania in the name of Progress.

Sincerely,

Kevin R. Kuhn

cc: Ms. Carole Rubley - PA House of Representatives, Mr. John T. Durbin - Executive Director PA Turnpike Commission, Senator James Gerlach, Senator Robert Thompson, Chester County Board of Commissioners, William Fulton - Executive Director - Chester County Planning Commission, Charlestown Township Board of Supervisors