PennDOT had previously proposed reconfiguring the roadway so that there was one lane of travel in each direction with a turning lane in the middle. A five-lane plan, with two lanes of travel in each direction and a turning lane in the middle, was also considered.

"I am thrilled that PennDOT took the input of St. Marys residents seriously and decided to opt for the four-lane plan," Gabler said. "It is very clear that the overwhelming majority of St. Marys residents want the road to remain a four-lane highway. The safety of the road will be improved by adding shoulders and moving the drainage inlets out of the travel lanes. The alignment of Arch Street will make travel in that area safer and more efficient, and the new turning lane at Vine Road will increase the safety and efficiency of the roadway. Overall, I believe this decision is a victory for everyone who made their voices heard during the public input process and it is a victory for the continued economic viability of the St. Marys area."

Gabler noted that he and his staff have been keeping in touch with representatives from the city and PennDOT to monitor the issue because of its critical importance to area residents.

"Throughout the process PennDOT reassured us that they were working with the input they had received, but they were not able to share any specific information with us until they were ready to announce their decision to the public," Gabler said.

Gabler added that it is clear how important the roadway is to the residents, businesses and industries of the St. Marys area.

"A well-maintained and adequately sized infrastructure is necessary to ensure that we will be able to compete to bring good employers to our region in the future," Gabler said. "By refusing to downsize St. Marys' major transportation artery, I believe we have sent a clear message that we are committed to keeping St. Marys a great place to live and work for decades to come."