Public commenter urges underground utilities, sidewalks and continued pressure on utilities and PennDOT

At the start of public comment, resident Pascal Delasio urged the planning commission to pursue walkability and streetscape improvements at the north end of Washington Avenue, and to press for underground utilities where feasible.

“...they should make a rule that says you can’t go through Giant Eagle to come out the other side,” Delasio said, and added forcefully, “whoever comes down that side part, they should be shot dead.” He framed those remarks as hyperbole about driver frustration and repeatedly asked commissioners to keep pushing PennDOT and utilities to support pedestrian connections to the theater, Giant Eagle and other local destinations.

Delasio acknowledged the cost implications of full utility relocation and said he was not asking it be the first priority, but requested it remain on the commission’s radar as part of a larger streetscape vision. The speaker credited past local volunteers and staff with sidewalk improvements elsewhere and said a small amount of additional work could substantially improve walkability.

Commission staff responded by clarifying that utilities are sometimes required to relocate during major PennDOT projects but that, absent a qualifying project, relocation can incur costs and may ultimately be reflected in utility bills. Commissioners thanked Delasio and encouraged him to submit formal suggestions for incorporation into planning materials.

The commission did not take formal action on Delasio’s requests at the meeting.