Oct 15, 2006 By Amanda Clegg 2 min read

CALIFORNIA – With more than $8 million secured for the preliminary designs, California University of Pennsylvania is moving forward with plans to upgrade its transportation system. At a Mid-Mon Valley Transit Authority and Cal U dedication ceremony this week for a park-and-ride lot off state Route 88, university president Dr. Angelo Armenti Jr. said preliminary designs for a slow-moving magnetic levitation train (maglev) are being developed.

The transit authority secured $8.5 million to begin preliminary designs.

“The placement of the park-and-ride lot was chosen to accommodate the maglev coming in here,” Armenti said.

The total cost of the project is $188 million, with $150 million in federal funding and $38 million in state and local funding, Armenti explained.

The proposed maglev would run from the California Public Library, through campus, up to the Jefferson Apartments, to the Center in the Woods off Route 88.

Mayor Casey Durdines said he supports the project.

“Once constructed, it will fit in with the community very well,” he said, adding that the maglev would bring “positive national attention” to California.

Marc Roncone, public relations director for Mid-Mon Valley Transit, said the authority applies for funding on behalf of the university and is involved with the planning and design for “all transit-related activities.” He said the park-and-ride dedication served as a first step.

Although not present for the ceremony, U.S. Rep. John P. Murtha (D-Johnstown) released a statement about the importance of the project.

“We increase our chances to gain economically any time we can improve transportation with faster, easier access through the Mon Valley region,” he stated. “It’s gratifying to see these funds put to use on campus to ensure safe parking and transportation for the students and the community,” he added.