PITTSBURGH Backers of the Mon-Fayette Expressway project are turning to private donors in an attempt to complete the road. Construction on the toll road began in 1973. But the critical and expensive section meant to connect Pittsburgh and its eastern suburbs to Morgantown, W.Va., has never been completed, mostly due to a lack of funds.
Now, Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato and community leaders want private donors to put up half the $3.6 billion needed to complete the road. They hope Harrisburg will then put up the remainder.
Supporters of the project, which is designed to cut through valleys, hills and urban centers, believe it is key to reviving the economy of southwestern Pennsylvania.
