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#geography — Public Fediverse posts

Live and recent posts from across the Fediverse tagged #geography, aggregated by home.social.

  1. Hype for the Future 195M: City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa

    Overview The City of Cedar Rapids is a notable city in the eastern portion of the State of Iowa and serves as the county seat of Linn County, along Interstate 380 and Routes 30 and 151, with I-380 an overlay of the older Route 218 corridor within the community. Today, the community is home to the Hotel at Kirkwood Center on the southern end of the area as well as the History Center, the African American Museum of Iowa, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the Brucemore historic site, and the […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  2. Hype for the Future 195L: Iowa City, Iowa

    Overview Iowa City is a notable city located within Johnson County, Iowa, along Interstate 80 and Routes 6 and 218 in the eastern portion of the State. Today, the community is home to the University of Iowa, as well as the associated Museum of Natural History, Old Capitol Museum, and Stanley Museum of Art. To the north is the notable natural area of the Devonian Fossil Gorge, located near the Iowa River further upstream.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  3. Hype for the Future 195L: Iowa City, Iowa

    Overview Iowa City is a notable city located within Johnson County, Iowa, along Interstate 80 and Routes 6 and 218 in the eastern portion of the State. Today, the community is home to the University of Iowa, as well as the associated Museum of Natural History, Old Capitol Museum, and Stanley Museum of Art. To the north is the notable natural area of the Devonian Fossil Gorge, located near the Iowa River further upstream.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  4. Hype for the Future 195L: Iowa City, Iowa

    Overview Iowa City is a notable city located within Johnson County, Iowa, along Interstate 80 and Routes 6 and 218 in the eastern portion of the State. Today, the community is home to the University of Iowa, as well as the associated Museum of Natural History, Old Capitol Museum, and Stanley Museum of Art. To the north is the notable natural area of the Devonian Fossil Gorge, located near the Iowa River further upstream.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  5. Hype for the Future 195L: Iowa City, Iowa

    Overview Iowa City is a notable city located within Johnson County, Iowa, along Interstate 80 and Routes 6 and 218 in the eastern portion of the State. Today, the community is home to the University of Iowa, as well as the associated Museum of Natural History, Old Capitol Museum, and Stanley Museum of Art. To the north is the notable natural area of the Devonian Fossil Gorge, located near the Iowa River further upstream.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  6. Hype for the Future 195L: Iowa City, Iowa

    Overview Iowa City is a notable city located within Johnson County, Iowa, along Interstate 80 and Routes 6 and 218 in the eastern portion of the State. Today, the community is home to the University of Iowa, as well as the associated Museum of Natural History, Old Capitol Museum, and Stanley Museum of Art. To the north is the notable natural area of the Devonian Fossil Gorge, located near the Iowa River further upstream.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  7. Hype for the Future 195K: The Amana Colonies

    Overview The Amana Colonies are a notable group of utopian communities today located within Iowa County, Iowa, including the village areas of Amana, East Amana, West Amana, Middle Amana, High Amana, South Amana, and Homestead. Overall, the region is today located to the east of the community of Marengo along Route 6 at the junction with the diagonal Route 51 corridor. Notable amenities within the Amana Colonies include the Hotel Millwright in Amana, the Trail Inn, the Amana Heritage Society, […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  8. Hype for the Future 195J: Cedar Falls and Waterloo, Iowa

    Introduction Within the northeastern portion of the State of Iowa is the conurbation of the Cities of Cedar Falls and Waterloo, both located within Black Hawk County, with the latter serving as the larger city to the east and county seat of Black Hawk County. Notable Infrastructure The Cities of Cedar Falls and Waterloo are each located away from the Interstate Highway System, with the twin communities substantially north of Interstate 80 and south of Interstate 90, with the conurbation […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  9. Hype for the Future 195I: City of Waverly, Iowa

    Overview The City of Waverly is a city in and the county seat of Bremer County, Iowa, home to Wartburg College and Routes 65, 218, and 3. Today, the community is associated with the northeastern portion of the State of Iowa and is home to a location of the Cobblestone Hotel and Suites chain serving generally smaller communities particularly throughout the Midwest.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  10. Hype for the Future 195H: City of New Hampton, Iowa

    Overview The City of New Hampton is a city in and the county seat of Chickasaw County, Iowa, along Routes 18, 63, and 24 and home to the local Carnegie Cultural Center.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  11. Hype for the Future 195G: City of Cresco, Iowa

    Overview The City of Cresco is a city located in and the county seat of Howard County, Iowa, along Route 9 east of Route 63 and south of the Minnesota state line. Today, the community is home to the Connie’s Century Corner Bed and Breakfast.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  12. Hype for the Future 195G: City of Cresco, Iowa

    Overview The City of Cresco is a city located in and the county seat of Howard County, Iowa, along Route 9 east of Route 63 and south of the Minnesota state line. Today, the community is home to the Connie’s Century Corner Bed and Breakfast.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  13. Hype for the Future 195G: City of Cresco, Iowa

    Overview The City of Cresco is a city located in and the county seat of Howard County, Iowa, along Route 9 east of Route 63 and south of the Minnesota state line. Today, the community is home to the Connie’s Century Corner Bed and Breakfast.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  14. Hype for the Future 195G: City of Cresco, Iowa

    Overview The City of Cresco is a city located in and the county seat of Howard County, Iowa, along Route 9 east of Route 63 and south of the Minnesota state line. Today, the community is home to the Connie’s Century Corner Bed and Breakfast.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  15. Hype for the Future 195G: City of Cresco, Iowa

    Overview The City of Cresco is a city located in and the county seat of Howard County, Iowa, along Route 9 east of Route 63 and south of the Minnesota state line. Today, the community is home to the Connie’s Century Corner Bed and Breakfast.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  16. RE: avgeek.social/@ikluft/11657427

    How many US populated places (not necessarily cities) besides Melbourne, Florida duplicate Australian city names? With common English influence, it's no surprise there's some overlap. With a quick search of the USGS Geographic Names Information System (GNIS) database, I found...
    Sydney: FL ND
    Melbourne: AR CA FL IA KY MO TN WA
    Brisbane: CA IL ND
    Adelaide: CO GA ID PA WA
    Perth: DE IN KS MN MS ND NV NY VA
    Darwin: CA IL MN NV OH OK TN VA
    Alice Springs: none
    #mapgeek #geography #Australia #USA

  17. Hype for the Future 195F: City of Ottumwa, Iowa

    Overview The City of Ottumwa is a local population center located in the southeastern portion of the State of Iowa and serves as the county seat of Wapello County, along Routes 34, 61, and 23. The community is home to the historic Hotel Ottumwa and the Iowa Heartland History Connection.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  18. Hype for the Future 195E: City of Oskaloosa, Iowa

    Overview The City of Oskaloosa is a city located within and the county seat of Mahaska County, Iowa, along Routes 63, 23, 92, and 163. Today, the community is located within the southeastern portion of the State of Iowa and is the site of the Southern Iowa Fair, William Penn University, and the Nelson Pioneer Farm and Museum.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  19. Hype for the Future 195D: City of Tama, Iowa

    Overview The City of Tama is the largest community within Tama County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 63 in the east-central portion of the State, though the adjacent City of Toledo to the north serves as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  20. Hype for the Future 195D: City of Tama, Iowa

    Overview The City of Tama is the largest community within Tama County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 63 in the east-central portion of the State, though the adjacent City of Toledo to the north serves as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  21. Hype for the Future 195D: City of Tama, Iowa

    Overview The City of Tama is the largest community within Tama County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 63 in the east-central portion of the State, though the adjacent City of Toledo to the north serves as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  22. Hype for the Future 195D: City of Tama, Iowa

    Overview The City of Tama is the largest community within Tama County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 63 in the east-central portion of the State, though the adjacent City of Toledo to the north serves as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  23. Hype for the Future 195D: City of Tama, Iowa

    Overview The City of Tama is the largest community within Tama County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 63 in the east-central portion of the State, though the adjacent City of Toledo to the north serves as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  24. Hype for the Future 195C: City of Albia, Iowa

    Overview The City of Albia is a city in and the county seat of Monroe County, Iowa, along Routes 34 and 5 north of Centerville and Appanoose County.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  25. Hype for the Future 195B: City of Knoxville, Iowa

    Overview The City of Knoxville is a small city in and the county seat of Marion County, Iowa, along Routes 5, 14, and 92, with the community associated with the National Spirit Car Hall of Fame and Museum.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  26. Hype for the Future 195B: City of Knoxville, Iowa

    Overview The City of Knoxville is a small city in and the county seat of Marion County, Iowa, along Routes 5, 14, and 92, with the community associated with the National Spirit Car Hall of Fame and Museum.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  27. Hype for the Future 195B: City of Knoxville, Iowa

    Overview The City of Knoxville is a small city in and the county seat of Marion County, Iowa, along Routes 5, 14, and 92, with the community associated with the National Spirit Car Hall of Fame and Museum.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  28. Hype for the Future 195B: City of Knoxville, Iowa

    Overview The City of Knoxville is a small city in and the county seat of Marion County, Iowa, along Routes 5, 14, and 92, with the community associated with the National Spirit Car Hall of Fame and Museum.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  29. Hype for the Future 195B: City of Knoxville, Iowa

    Overview The City of Knoxville is a small city in and the county seat of Marion County, Iowa, along Routes 5, 14, and 92, with the community associated with the National Spirit Car Hall of Fame and Museum.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  30. Hype for the Future 195A: City of Marshalltown, Iowa

    Overview The City of Marshalltown is a city in and the county seat of Marshall County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 14. Today, the community is associated with the Iowa Veterans Home and Marshalltown Community College, as well as the historic Binford and Glick-Sower Houses and Mowry Irvine Mansion.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  31. Hype for the Future 195A: City of Marshalltown, Iowa

    Overview The City of Marshalltown is a city in and the county seat of Marshall County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 14. Today, the community is associated with the Iowa Veterans Home and Marshalltown Community College, as well as the historic Binford and Glick-Sower Houses and Mowry Irvine Mansion.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  32. Hype for the Future 195A: City of Marshalltown, Iowa

    Overview The City of Marshalltown is a city in and the county seat of Marshall County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 14. Today, the community is associated with the Iowa Veterans Home and Marshalltown Community College, as well as the historic Binford and Glick-Sower Houses and Mowry Irvine Mansion.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  33. Hype for the Future 195A: City of Marshalltown, Iowa

    Overview The City of Marshalltown is a city in and the county seat of Marshall County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 14. Today, the community is associated with the Iowa Veterans Home and Marshalltown Community College, as well as the historic Binford and Glick-Sower Houses and Mowry Irvine Mansion.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  34. Hype for the Future 195A: City of Marshalltown, Iowa

    Overview The City of Marshalltown is a city in and the county seat of Marshall County, Iowa, along Routes 30 and 14. Today, the community is associated with the Iowa Veterans Home and Marshalltown Community College, as well as the historic Binford and Glick-Sower Houses and Mowry Irvine Mansion.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  35. Hype for the Future 195/284: City of Osage, Iowa

    Overview The City of Osage is a small community in and the county seat of Mitchell County, Iowa, along Routes 218 and 9 near the northern border of the State.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  36. Carving out 12 million cubic yards of rock for a toll road eyesore?

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission wants to eliminate the Allegheny Tunnels along the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstates 70/76) through Allegheny Mountain in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The tunnels would be replaced with a massive road cut (a.k.a. ‘the Gray Cut’) that would be 250 feet deep, 1,000 feet wide and would require the excavation of 12 million cubic yards of earth and rock. That is not an engineering accomplishment, that’s a plan for a future eyesore.

    Source: aol.com

    A recent calculation (confirmed by using Google’s gemini.ai) has shown that 12 million cubic yards of rock would fill an entire football field to the height of a bit more than 5,600 feet…more than a mile high and nearly four Empire State Buildings tall. It would also be the tallest mountain/structure in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Even a natural conical pile of this material would be approximately 1,100 feet high. Where exactly does the Turnpike Commission plan to dump all this material?

    Source: created by google.gemini.ai

    Reasons cited for the proposed Gray Cut

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has noted that the cost of upgrading the tunnels would be approximately double that of the Gray Cut. They indicate it is also needed due to anticipated future traffic, improved safety (particularly related to accidents within the tunnels), maintenance costs for the tunnels, and the current need for hazardous cargo loads to bypass the tunnels. According to the turnpike’s website, the preliminary design phase is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed in 2028. If approved for construction, actual work would begin in 2033.

    Source: paturnpike.com

    In regards to the cost comparison between the cut and tunnel improvements/upgrades, what never seems to be included in the calculations are the intangible benefits associated with the scenery, wildlife, ecosystems, water resources, culture, history, and lifestyles that would negatively impacted by this project.

    “Look Doris, someday you’re going to find that your way of facing this realistic world just doesn’t work. And when you do, don’t overlook those lovely intangibles. You’ll discover they’re the only things that are worthwhile.”

    Fred from Miracle on 34th Street per imdb.com

    In addition, many other tunnels across the nation ban hazardous materials. Exactly why is this being used as a reason to build this project here? Maybe manufacturers should be transporting such dangerous stuff on trains instead of trucks on highways? Or perhaps, it should just be an accepted cost of doing business.

    Lastly, “anticipated future traffic” can be a tricky calculation. All too often, past data is used to guesstimate futures trends. In reality, unforeseen events can alter those calculations. Unforeseen events like gas prices now hovering around $4.50+ per gallon, with diesel prices running even higher. There are a litany of other things that could change the traffic dynamics – migration patterns, birthrates, car ownership rates, inflation, cyclical economic changes, war, and climate change to name a few.

    If this project is being proposed just so the PA Turnpike can better compete with I-80 to the north and I-68 to the south, then that is a very poor reason to cause the extent of anticipated negative impacts listed below. It should be noted that neither I-80 nor I-68 have tunnels nor tolls. The Sideling Hill Cut west of Hancock, Maryland on I-68 is 340 feet deep and 720 feet wide. The much ballyhooed geological display at the site was closed 18 years after completion due to budget cuts. en.wikipedia.org and mgs.md.gov

    In addition, rockfall fencing needed to be added along both sides of the highway in the Sideling Hill Cut in 2023.

    Anticipated negative impacts

    Not only would such a massive trench leave a permanent disfiguring scar across this scenic mountainous landscape, but it would also have the following negative impacts, as noted by Citizens to Save Allegheny Mountain:


    “The proposed Gray Cut would destroy critical wildlife habitats, disrupt migration patterns, and endanger species that rely on the unspoiled wilderness of the Allegheny Mountain.”

    “The natural springs and deep wells that provide clean water to nearby communities and are at risk of being polluted or permanently altered by the construction.”

    “The project will lead to the removal of forest stand and the displacement of massive amounts of soil and sediment that can never be reestablished or replaced.”

    “This irreversible destruction…will also reduce recreational opportunities and threaten traditions such as hunting and fishing opportunities, which are vital to the region’s outdoor lifestyle.”

    “The proposed construction will fragment these habitats, making it difficult for wildlife to find food, shelter, and mates.”

    “The Gray Cut project jeopardizes these efforts [previous and current restoration efforts along the Stonycreek River Watershed].

    “Beyond the Stonycreek River, other neighboring watersheds, including the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River and the Indian Lake Watersheds, are also at risk due to the Allegheny Mountain Tunnel’s unique location at a triple watershed divide.”

    “Construction activities associated with the turnpike expansion will significantly increase the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation in nearby streams and rivers.”

    “The increased runoff from paved surfaces carries pollutants such as oil, heavy metals, and other toxic substances into water bodies, further impacting the health of our waterways within the Stonycreek River watershed.”

    “The noise, dust, and heavy machinery involved in this large-scale construction project would disrupt the lives of local residents and visitors who cherish the peace and quiet of the mountain.”

    “The project will disrupt local communities by affecting the water supply for residents who rely on wells and natural springs. The potential contamination of these water sources poses serious health risks, particularly for those who rely on them for daily use.”

    “The long-term environmental and social costs far outweigh any short-term economic gains.”

    Allegheny Tunnels – Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Other impacts not mentioned by Citizen to Save the Allegheny Mountain on their website, include, but are not limited to:

    • Increased risk of animal vehicle collisions with the loss of the mountain’s natural wildlife crossing over the turnpike. This may lead to the future need of constructing a new wildlife crossing.
    • “Drivers on the proposed highway would lose the tunnel’s protection from the worst of the weather near the turnpike’s highest point, 2,600 feet above sea level, where fog, icing and high winds are frequent hazards.” – penncapital-star.com
    • The potential for microclimate changes in weather patterns as a result of the cut. According to google.gemini.ai, these could include: wind-channeling through the cut; alteration to the rain shadow on the east side of the mountain; creation of a cold air sink at the bottom of the cut increasing the likelihood of fog and frost; and disruption to wind patterns along the mountainside.
    • The loss of the historic highway tunnels, first built in 1940 and expanded in 1965.
    Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Steps one can take

    If you feel this proposed project should go back to the drawing board, consider other alternatives, or be scrapped for upgrading the tunnels, please consider contacting Citizens to Save the Allegheny Mountain through the following links:

    The organization’s website includes a petition one can sign along with space to provide comments.

    Peace!

    #AlleghenyMountain #AlleghenyTunnels #construction #cut #environment #eyesore #geography #GrayCut #highways #history #Interstates #landUse #mountains #Pennsylvania #PennsylvaniaTurnpike #SaveAlleghenyMountain #scar #tollRoads #transportation #travel #trench #turnpikes
  37. Carving out 12 million cubic yards of rock for a toll road eyesore?

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission wants to eliminate the Allegheny Tunnels along the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstates 70/76) through Allegheny Mountain in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The tunnels would be replaced with a massive road cut (a.k.a. ‘the Gray Cut’) that would be 250 feet deep, 1,000 feet wide and would require the excavation of 12 million cubic yards of earth and rock. That is not an engineering accomplishment, that’s a plan for a future eyesore.

    Source: aol.com

    A recent calculation (confirmed by using Google’s gemini.ai) has shown that 12 million cubic yards of rock would fill an entire football field to the height of a bit more than 5,600 feet…more than a mile high and nearly four Empire State Buildings tall. It would also be the tallest mountain/structure in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Even a natural conical pile of this material would be approximately 1,100 feet high. Where exactly does the Turnpike Commission plan to dump all this material?

    Source: created by google.gemini.ai

    Reasons cited for the proposed Gray Cut

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has noted that the cost of upgrading the tunnels would be approximately double that of the Gray Cut. They indicate it is also needed due to anticipated future traffic, improved safety (particularly related to accidents within the tunnels), maintenance costs for the tunnels, and the current need for hazardous cargo loads to bypass the tunnels. According to the turnpike’s website, the preliminary design phase is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed in 2028. If approved for construction, actual work would begin in 2033.

    Source: paturnpike.com

    In regards to the cost comparison between the cut and tunnel improvements/upgrades, what never seems to be included in the calculations are the intangible benefits associated with the scenery, wildlife, ecosystems, water resources, culture, history, and lifestyles that would negatively impacted by this project.

    “Look Doris, someday you’re going to find that your way of facing this realistic world just doesn’t work. And when you do, don’t overlook those lovely intangibles. You’ll discover they’re the only things that are worthwhile.”

    Fred from Miracle on 34th Street per imdb.com

    In addition, many other tunnels across the nation ban hazardous materials. Exactly why is this being used as a reason to build this project here? Maybe manufacturers should be transporting such dangerous stuff on trains instead of trucks on highways? Or perhaps, it should just be an accepted cost of doing business.

    Lastly, “anticipated future traffic” can be a tricky calculation. All too often, past data is used to guesstimate futures trends. In reality, unforeseen events can alter those calculations. Unforeseen events like gas prices now hovering around $4.50+ per gallon, with diesel prices running even higher. There are a litany of other things that could change the traffic dynamics – migration patterns, birthrates, car ownership rates, inflation, cyclical economic changes, war, and climate change to name a few.

    If this project is being proposed just so the PA Turnpike can better compete with I-80 to the north and I-68 to the south, then that is a very poor reason to cause the extent of anticipated negative impacts listed below. It should be noted that neither I-80 nor I-68 have tunnels nor tolls. The Sideling Hill Cut west of Hancock, Maryland on I-68 is 340 feet deep and 720 feet wide. The much ballyhooed geological display at the site was closed 18 years after completion due to budget cuts. en.wikipedia.org and mgs.md.gov

    In addition, rockfall fencing needed to be added along both sides of the highway in the Sideling Hill Cut in 2023.

    Anticipated negative impacts

    Not only would such a massive trench leave a permanent disfiguring scar across this scenic mountainous landscape, but it would also have the following negative impacts, as noted by Citizens to Save Allegheny Mountain:


    “The proposed Gray Cut would destroy critical wildlife habitats, disrupt migration patterns, and endanger species that rely on the unspoiled wilderness of the Allegheny Mountain.”

    “The natural springs and deep wells that provide clean water to nearby communities and are at risk of being polluted or permanently altered by the construction.”

    “The project will lead to the removal of forest stand and the displacement of massive amounts of soil and sediment that can never be reestablished or replaced.”

    “This irreversible destruction…will also reduce recreational opportunities and threaten traditions such as hunting and fishing opportunities, which are vital to the region’s outdoor lifestyle.”

    “The proposed construction will fragment these habitats, making it difficult for wildlife to find food, shelter, and mates.”

    “The Gray Cut project jeopardizes these efforts [previous and current restoration efforts along the Stonycreek River Watershed].

    “Beyond the Stonycreek River, other neighboring watersheds, including the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River and the Indian Lake Watersheds, are also at risk due to the Allegheny Mountain Tunnel’s unique location at a triple watershed divide.”

    “Construction activities associated with the turnpike expansion will significantly increase the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation in nearby streams and rivers.”

    “The increased runoff from paved surfaces carries pollutants such as oil, heavy metals, and other toxic substances into water bodies, further impacting the health of our waterways within the Stonycreek River watershed.”

    “The noise, dust, and heavy machinery involved in this large-scale construction project would disrupt the lives of local residents and visitors who cherish the peace and quiet of the mountain.”

    “The project will disrupt local communities by affecting the water supply for residents who rely on wells and natural springs. The potential contamination of these water sources poses serious health risks, particularly for those who rely on them for daily use.”

    “The long-term environmental and social costs far outweigh any short-term economic gains.”

    Allegheny Tunnels – Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Other impacts not mentioned by Citizen to Save the Allegheny Mountain on their website, include, but are not limited to:

    • Increased risk of animal vehicle collisions with the loss of the mountain’s natural wildlife crossing over the turnpike. This may lead to the future need of constructing a new wildlife crossing.
    • “Drivers on the proposed highway would lose the tunnel’s protection from the worst of the weather near the turnpike’s highest point, 2,600 feet above sea level, where fog, icing and high winds are frequent hazards.” – penncapital-star.com
    • The potential for microclimate changes in weather patterns as a result of the cut. According to google.gemini.ai, these could include: wind-channeling through the cut; alteration to the rain shadow on the east side of the mountain; creation of a cold air sink at the bottom of the cut increasing the likelihood of fog and frost; and disruption to wind patterns along the mountainside.
    • The loss of the historic highway tunnels, first built in 1940 and expanded in 1965.
    Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Steps one can take

    If you feel this proposed project should go back to the drawing board, consider other alternatives, or be scrapped for upgrading the tunnels, please consider contacting Citizens to Save the Allegheny Mountain through the following links:

    The organization’s website includes a petition one can sign along with space to provide comments.

    Peace!

    #AlleghenyMountain #AlleghenyTunnels #construction #cut #environment #eyesore #geography #GrayCut #highways #history #Interstates #landUse #mountains #Pennsylvania #PennsylvaniaTurnpike #SaveAlleghenyMountain #scar #tollRoads #transportation #travel #trench #turnpikes
  38. Carving out 12 million cubic yards of rock for a toll road eyesore?

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission wants to eliminate the Allegheny Tunnels along the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstates 70/76) through Allegheny Mountain in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The tunnels would be replaced with a massive road cut (a.k.a. ‘the Gray Cut’) that would be 250 feet deep, 1,000 feet wide and would require the excavation of 12 million cubic yards of earth and rock. That is not an engineering accomplishment, that’s a plan for a future eyesore.

    Source: aol.com

    A recent calculation (confirmed by using Google’s gemini.ai) has shown that 12 million cubic yards of rock would fill an entire football field to the height of a bit more than 5,600 feet…more than a mile high and nearly four Empire State Buildings tall. It would also be the tallest mountain/structure in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Even a natural conical pile of this material would be approximately 1,100 feet high. Where exactly does the Turnpike Commission plan to dump all this material?

    Source: created by google.gemini.ai

    Reasons cited for the proposed Gray Cut

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has noted that the cost of upgrading the tunnels would be approximately double that of the Gray Cut. They indicate it is also needed due to anticipated future traffic, improved safety (particularly related to accidents within the tunnels), maintenance costs for the tunnels, and the current need for hazardous cargo loads to bypass the tunnels. According to the turnpike’s website, the preliminary design phase is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed in 2028. If approved for construction, actual work would begin in 2033.

    Source: paturnpike.com

    In regards to the cost comparison between the cut and tunnel improvements/upgrades, what never seems to be included in the calculations are the intangible benefits associated with the scenery, wildlife, ecosystems, water resources, culture, history, and lifestyles that would negatively impacted by this project.

    “Look Doris, someday you’re going to find that your way of facing this realistic world just doesn’t work. And when you do, don’t overlook those lovely intangibles. You’ll discover they’re the only things that are worthwhile.”

    Fred from Miracle on 34th Street per imdb.com

    In addition, many other tunnels across the nation ban hazardous materials. Exactly why is this being used as a reason to build this project here? Maybe manufacturers should be transporting such dangerous stuff on trains instead of trucks on highways? Or perhaps, it should just be an accepted cost of doing business.

    Lastly, “anticipated future traffic” can be a tricky calculation. All too often, past data is used to guesstimate futures trends. In reality, unforeseen events can alter those calculations. Unforeseen events like gas prices now hovering around $4.50+ per gallon, with diesel prices running even higher. There are a litany of other things that could change the traffic dynamics – migration patterns, birthrates, car ownership rates, inflation, cyclical economic changes, war, and climate change to name a few.

    If this project is being proposed just so the PA Turnpike can better compete with I-80 to the north and I-68 to the south, then that is a very poor reason to cause the extent of anticipated negative impacts listed below. It should be noted that neither I-80 nor I-68 have tunnels nor tolls. The Sideling Hill Cut west of Hancock, Maryland on I-68 is 340 feet deep and 720 feet wide. The much ballyhooed geological display at the site was closed 18 years after completion due to budget cuts. en.wikipedia.org and mgs.md.gov

    In addition, rockfall fencing needed to be added along both sides of the highway in the Sideling Hill Cut in 2023.

    Anticipated negative impacts

    Not only would such a massive trench leave a permanent disfiguring scar across this scenic mountainous landscape, but it would also have the following negative impacts, as noted by Citizens to Save Allegheny Mountain:


    “The proposed Gray Cut would destroy critical wildlife habitats, disrupt migration patterns, and endanger species that rely on the unspoiled wilderness of the Allegheny Mountain.”

    “The natural springs and deep wells that provide clean water to nearby communities and are at risk of being polluted or permanently altered by the construction.”

    “The project will lead to the removal of forest stand and the displacement of massive amounts of soil and sediment that can never be reestablished or replaced.”

    “This irreversible destruction…will also reduce recreational opportunities and threaten traditions such as hunting and fishing opportunities, which are vital to the region’s outdoor lifestyle.”

    “The proposed construction will fragment these habitats, making it difficult for wildlife to find food, shelter, and mates.”

    “The Gray Cut project jeopardizes these efforts [previous and current restoration efforts along the Stonycreek River Watershed].

    “Beyond the Stonycreek River, other neighboring watersheds, including the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River and the Indian Lake Watersheds, are also at risk due to the Allegheny Mountain Tunnel’s unique location at a triple watershed divide.”

    “Construction activities associated with the turnpike expansion will significantly increase the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation in nearby streams and rivers.”

    “The increased runoff from paved surfaces carries pollutants such as oil, heavy metals, and other toxic substances into water bodies, further impacting the health of our waterways within the Stonycreek River watershed.”

    “The noise, dust, and heavy machinery involved in this large-scale construction project would disrupt the lives of local residents and visitors who cherish the peace and quiet of the mountain.”

    “The project will disrupt local communities by affecting the water supply for residents who rely on wells and natural springs. The potential contamination of these water sources poses serious health risks, particularly for those who rely on them for daily use.”

    “The long-term environmental and social costs far outweigh any short-term economic gains.”

    Allegheny Tunnels – Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Other impacts not mentioned by Citizen to Save the Allegheny Mountain on their website, include, but are not limited to:

    • Increased risk of animal vehicle collisions with the loss of the mountain’s natural wildlife crossing over the turnpike. This may lead to the future need of constructing a new wildlife crossing.
    • “Drivers on the proposed highway would lose the tunnel’s protection from the worst of the weather near the turnpike’s highest point, 2,600 feet above sea level, where fog, icing and high winds are frequent hazards.” – penncapital-star.com
    • The potential for microclimate changes in weather patterns as a result of the cut. According to google.gemini.ai, these could include: wind-channeling through the cut; alteration to the rain shadow on the east side of the mountain; creation of a cold air sink at the bottom of the cut increasing the likelihood of fog and frost; and disruption to wind patterns along the mountainside.
    • The loss of the historic highway tunnels, first built in 1940 and expanded in 1965.
    Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Steps one can take

    If you feel this proposed project should go back to the drawing board, consider other alternatives, or be scrapped for upgrading the tunnels, please consider contacting Citizens to Save the Allegheny Mountain through the following links:

    The organization’s website includes a petition one can sign along with space to provide comments.

    Peace!

    #AlleghenyMountain #AlleghenyTunnels #construction #cut #environment #eyesore #geography #GrayCut #highways #history #Interstates #landUse #mountains #Pennsylvania #PennsylvaniaTurnpike #SaveAlleghenyMountain #scar #tollRoads #transportation #travel #trench #turnpikes
  39. Carving out 12 million cubic yards of rock for a toll road eyesore?

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission wants to eliminate the Allegheny Tunnels along the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstates 70/76) through Allegheny Mountain in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The tunnels would be replaced with a massive road cut (a.k.a. ‘the Gray Cut’) that would be 250 feet deep, 1,000 feet wide and would require the excavation of 12 million cubic yards of earth and rock. That is not an engineering accomplishment, that’s a plan for a future eyesore.

    Source: aol.com

    A recent calculation (confirmed by using Google’s gemini.ai) has shown that 12 million cubic yards of rock would fill an entire football field to the height of a bit more than 5,600 feet…more than a mile high and nearly four Empire State Buildings tall. It would also be the tallest mountain/structure in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Even a natural conical pile of this material would be approximately 1,100 feet high. Where exactly does the Turnpike Commission plan to dump all this material?

    Source: created by google.gemini.ai

    Reasons cited for the proposed Gray Cut

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has noted that the cost of upgrading the tunnels would be approximately double that of the Gray Cut. They indicate it is also needed due to anticipated future traffic, improved safety (particularly related to accidents within the tunnels), maintenance costs for the tunnels, and the current need for hazardous cargo loads to bypass the tunnels. According to the turnpike’s website, the preliminary design phase is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed in 2028. If approved for construction, actual work would begin in 2033.

    Source: paturnpike.com

    In regards to the cost comparison between the cut and tunnel improvements/upgrades, what never seems to be included in the calculations are the intangible benefits associated with the scenery, wildlife, ecosystems, water resources, culture, history, and lifestyles that would negatively impacted by this project.

    “Look Doris, someday you’re going to find that your way of facing this realistic world just doesn’t work. And when you do, don’t overlook those lovely intangibles. You’ll discover they’re the only things that are worthwhile.”

    Fred from Miracle on 34th Street per imdb.com

    In addition, many other tunnels across the nation ban hazardous materials. Exactly why is this being used as a reason to build this project here? Maybe manufacturers should be transporting such dangerous stuff on trains instead of trucks on highways? Or perhaps, it should just be an accepted cost of doing business.

    Lastly, “anticipated future traffic” can be a tricky calculation. All too often, past data is used to guesstimate futures trends. In reality, unforeseen events can alter those calculations. Unforeseen events like gas prices now hovering around $4.50+ per gallon, with diesel prices running even higher. There are a litany of other things that could change the traffic dynamics – migration patterns, birthrates, car ownership rates, inflation, cyclical economic changes, war, and climate change to name a few.

    If this project is being proposed just so the PA Turnpike can better compete with I-80 to the north and I-68 to the south, then that is a very poor reason to cause the extent of anticipated negative impacts listed below. It should be noted that neither I-80 nor I-68 have tunnels nor tolls. The Sideling Hill Cut west of Hancock, Maryland on I-68 is 340 feet deep and 720 feet wide. The much ballyhooed geological display at the site was closed 18 years after completion due to budget cuts. en.wikipedia.org and mgs.md.gov

    In addition, rockfall fencing needed to be added along both sides of the highway in the Sideling Hill Cut in 2023.

    Anticipated negative impacts

    Not only would such a massive trench leave a permanent disfiguring scar across this scenic mountainous landscape, but it would also have the following negative impacts, as noted by Citizens to Save Allegheny Mountain:


    “The proposed Gray Cut would destroy critical wildlife habitats, disrupt migration patterns, and endanger species that rely on the unspoiled wilderness of the Allegheny Mountain.”

    “The natural springs and deep wells that provide clean water to nearby communities and are at risk of being polluted or permanently altered by the construction.”

    “The project will lead to the removal of forest stand and the displacement of massive amounts of soil and sediment that can never be reestablished or replaced.”

    “This irreversible destruction…will also reduce recreational opportunities and threaten traditions such as hunting and fishing opportunities, which are vital to the region’s outdoor lifestyle.”

    “The proposed construction will fragment these habitats, making it difficult for wildlife to find food, shelter, and mates.”

    “The Gray Cut project jeopardizes these efforts [previous and current restoration efforts along the Stonycreek River Watershed].

    “Beyond the Stonycreek River, other neighboring watersheds, including the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River and the Indian Lake Watersheds, are also at risk due to the Allegheny Mountain Tunnel’s unique location at a triple watershed divide.”

    “Construction activities associated with the turnpike expansion will significantly increase the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation in nearby streams and rivers.”

    “The increased runoff from paved surfaces carries pollutants such as oil, heavy metals, and other toxic substances into water bodies, further impacting the health of our waterways within the Stonycreek River watershed.”

    “The noise, dust, and heavy machinery involved in this large-scale construction project would disrupt the lives of local residents and visitors who cherish the peace and quiet of the mountain.”

    “The project will disrupt local communities by affecting the water supply for residents who rely on wells and natural springs. The potential contamination of these water sources poses serious health risks, particularly for those who rely on them for daily use.”

    “The long-term environmental and social costs far outweigh any short-term economic gains.”

    Allegheny Tunnels – Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Other impacts not mentioned by Citizen to Save the Allegheny Mountain on their website, include, but are not limited to:

    • Increased risk of animal vehicle collisions with the loss of the mountain’s natural wildlife crossing over the turnpike. This may lead to the future need of constructing a new wildlife crossing.
    • “Drivers on the proposed highway would lose the tunnel’s protection from the worst of the weather near the turnpike’s highest point, 2,600 feet above sea level, where fog, icing and high winds are frequent hazards.” – penncapital-star.com
    • The potential for microclimate changes in weather patterns as a result of the cut. According to google.gemini.ai, these could include: wind-channeling through the cut; alteration to the rain shadow on the east side of the mountain; creation of a cold air sink at the bottom of the cut increasing the likelihood of fog and frost; and disruption to wind patterns along the mountainside.
    • The loss of the historic highway tunnels, first built in 1940 and expanded in 1965.
    Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Steps one can take

    If you feel this proposed project should go back to the drawing board, consider other alternatives, or be scrapped for upgrading the tunnels, please consider contacting Citizens to Save the Allegheny Mountain through the following links:

    The organization’s website includes a petition one can sign along with space to provide comments.

    Peace!

    #AlleghenyMountain #AlleghenyTunnels #construction #cut #environment #eyesore #geography #GrayCut #highways #history #Interstates #landUse #mountains #Pennsylvania #PennsylvaniaTurnpike #SaveAlleghenyMountain #scar #tollRoads #transportation #travel #trench #turnpikes
  40. Carving out 12 million cubic yards of rock for a toll road eyesore?

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission wants to eliminate the Allegheny Tunnels along the Pennsylvania Turnpike (Interstates 70/76) through Allegheny Mountain in Somerset County, Pennsylvania. The tunnels would be replaced with a massive road cut (a.k.a. ‘the Gray Cut’) that would be 250 feet deep, 1,000 feet wide and would require the excavation of 12 million cubic yards of earth and rock. That is not an engineering accomplishment, that’s a plan for a future eyesore.

    Source: aol.com

    A recent calculation (confirmed by using Google’s gemini.ai) has shown that 12 million cubic yards of rock would fill an entire football field to the height of a bit more than 5,600 feet…more than a mile high and nearly four Empire State Buildings tall. It would also be the tallest mountain/structure in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Even a natural conical pile of this material would be approximately 1,100 feet high. Where exactly does the Turnpike Commission plan to dump all this material?

    Source: created by google.gemini.ai

    Reasons cited for the proposed Gray Cut

    The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission has noted that the cost of upgrading the tunnels would be approximately double that of the Gray Cut. They indicate it is also needed due to anticipated future traffic, improved safety (particularly related to accidents within the tunnels), maintenance costs for the tunnels, and the current need for hazardous cargo loads to bypass the tunnels. According to the turnpike’s website, the preliminary design phase is currently ongoing and is expected to be completed in 2028. If approved for construction, actual work would begin in 2033.

    Source: paturnpike.com

    In regards to the cost comparison between the cut and tunnel improvements/upgrades, what never seems to be included in the calculations are the intangible benefits associated with the scenery, wildlife, ecosystems, water resources, culture, history, and lifestyles that would negatively impacted by this project.

    “Look Doris, someday you’re going to find that your way of facing this realistic world just doesn’t work. And when you do, don’t overlook those lovely intangibles. You’ll discover they’re the only things that are worthwhile.”

    Fred from Miracle on 34th Street per imdb.com

    In addition, many other tunnels across the nation ban hazardous materials. Exactly why is this being used as a reason to build this project here? Maybe manufacturers should be transporting such dangerous stuff on trains instead of trucks on highways? Or perhaps, it should just be an accepted cost of doing business.

    Lastly, “anticipated future traffic” can be a tricky calculation. All too often, past data is used to guesstimate futures trends. In reality, unforeseen events can alter those calculations. Unforeseen events like gas prices now hovering around $4.50+ per gallon, with diesel prices running even higher. There are a litany of other things that could change the traffic dynamics – migration patterns, birthrates, car ownership rates, inflation, cyclical economic changes, war, and climate change to name a few.

    If this project is being proposed just so the PA Turnpike can better compete with I-80 to the north and I-68 to the south, then that is a very poor reason to cause the extent of anticipated negative impacts listed below. It should be noted that neither I-80 nor I-68 have tunnels nor tolls. The Sideling Hill Cut west of Hancock, Maryland on I-68 is 340 feet deep and 720 feet wide. The much ballyhooed geological display at the site was closed 18 years after completion due to budget cuts. en.wikipedia.org and mgs.md.gov

    In addition, rockfall fencing needed to be added along both sides of the highway in the Sideling Hill Cut in 2023.

    Anticipated negative impacts

    Not only would such a massive trench leave a permanent disfiguring scar across this scenic mountainous landscape, but it would also have the following negative impacts, as noted by Citizens to Save Allegheny Mountain:


    “The proposed Gray Cut would destroy critical wildlife habitats, disrupt migration patterns, and endanger species that rely on the unspoiled wilderness of the Allegheny Mountain.”

    “The natural springs and deep wells that provide clean water to nearby communities and are at risk of being polluted or permanently altered by the construction.”

    “The project will lead to the removal of forest stand and the displacement of massive amounts of soil and sediment that can never be reestablished or replaced.”

    “This irreversible destruction…will also reduce recreational opportunities and threaten traditions such as hunting and fishing opportunities, which are vital to the region’s outdoor lifestyle.”

    “The proposed construction will fragment these habitats, making it difficult for wildlife to find food, shelter, and mates.”

    “The Gray Cut project jeopardizes these efforts [previous and current restoration efforts along the Stonycreek River Watershed].

    “Beyond the Stonycreek River, other neighboring watersheds, including the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River and the Indian Lake Watersheds, are also at risk due to the Allegheny Mountain Tunnel’s unique location at a triple watershed divide.”

    “Construction activities associated with the turnpike expansion will significantly increase the risk of soil erosion and sedimentation in nearby streams and rivers.”

    “The increased runoff from paved surfaces carries pollutants such as oil, heavy metals, and other toxic substances into water bodies, further impacting the health of our waterways within the Stonycreek River watershed.”

    “The noise, dust, and heavy machinery involved in this large-scale construction project would disrupt the lives of local residents and visitors who cherish the peace and quiet of the mountain.”

    “The project will disrupt local communities by affecting the water supply for residents who rely on wells and natural springs. The potential contamination of these water sources poses serious health risks, particularly for those who rely on them for daily use.”

    “The long-term environmental and social costs far outweigh any short-term economic gains.”

    Allegheny Tunnels – Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Other impacts not mentioned by Citizen to Save the Allegheny Mountain on their website, include, but are not limited to:

    • Increased risk of animal vehicle collisions with the loss of the mountain’s natural wildlife crossing over the turnpike. This may lead to the future need of constructing a new wildlife crossing.
    • “Drivers on the proposed highway would lose the tunnel’s protection from the worst of the weather near the turnpike’s highest point, 2,600 feet above sea level, where fog, icing and high winds are frequent hazards.” – penncapital-star.com
    • The potential for microclimate changes in weather patterns as a result of the cut. According to google.gemini.ai, these could include: wind-channeling through the cut; alteration to the rain shadow on the east side of the mountain; creation of a cold air sink at the bottom of the cut increasing the likelihood of fog and frost; and disruption to wind patterns along the mountainside.
    • The loss of the historic highway tunnels, first built in 1940 and expanded in 1965.
    Source: savealleghenymountain.org

    Steps one can take

    If you feel this proposed project should go back to the drawing board, consider other alternatives, or be scrapped for upgrading the tunnels, please consider contacting Citizens to Save the Allegheny Mountain through the following links:

    The organization’s website includes a petition one can sign along with space to provide comments.

    Peace!

    #AlleghenyMountain #AlleghenyTunnels #construction #cut #environment #eyesore #geography #GrayCut #highways #history #Interstates #landUse #mountains #Pennsylvania #PennsylvaniaTurnpike #SaveAlleghenyMountain #scar #tollRoads #transportation #travel #trench #turnpikes
  41. Midnight sun sailing in Greenland. In the Arctic summer, the "Golden Hour" lasts all night. Via
    @raymond_hoffmann #geography #nature #arctic #sailing #sun
    #Greenland

  42. Hype for the Future 194BUT: Butler County, Iowa

    Overview Butler County is a notable county located along Routes 3 and 14 in north-central Iowa, with the City of Allison serving as the county seat and notable communities elsewhere including the Cities of Aplington, Parkersburg, and New Hartford. Overall, the county in which the communities is located is relatively rural, though not necessarily remote with relative proximity to Charles City to the east and Mason City to the west. Even the northern edge of the county is home to a notable […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  43. Hype for the Future 194BUT: Butler County, Iowa

    Overview Butler County is a notable county located along Routes 3 and 14 in north-central Iowa, with the City of Allison serving as the county seat and notable communities elsewhere including the Cities of Aplington, Parkersburg, and New Hartford. Overall, the county in which the communities is located is relatively rural, though not necessarily remote with relative proximity to Charles City to the east and Mason City to the west. Even the northern edge of the county is home to a notable […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  44. Hype for the Future 194BUT: Butler County, Iowa

    Overview Butler County is a notable county located along Routes 3 and 14 in north-central Iowa, with the City of Allison serving as the county seat and notable communities elsewhere including the Cities of Aplington, Parkersburg, and New Hartford. Overall, the county in which the communities is located is relatively rural, though not necessarily remote with relative proximity to Charles City to the east and Mason City to the west. Even the northern edge of the county is home to a notable […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  45. Hype for the Future 194BUT: Butler County, Iowa

    Overview Butler County is a notable county located along Routes 3 and 14 in north-central Iowa, with the City of Allison serving as the county seat and notable communities elsewhere including the Cities of Aplington, Parkersburg, and New Hartford. Overall, the county in which the communities is located is relatively rural, though not necessarily remote with relative proximity to Charles City to the east and Mason City to the west. Even the northern edge of the county is home to a notable […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  46. Hype for the Future 194BUT: Butler County, Iowa

    Overview Butler County is a notable county located along Routes 3 and 14 in north-central Iowa, with the City of Allison serving as the county seat and notable communities elsewhere including the Cities of Aplington, Parkersburg, and New Hartford. Overall, the county in which the communities is located is relatively rural, though not necessarily remote with relative proximity to Charles City to the east and Mason City to the west. Even the northern edge of the county is home to a notable […]

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  47. Hype for the Future 194GRI: Grundy County, Iowa

    Overview Grundy County is a county located in the central portion of the State of Iowa along Routes 14 and 175 with the City of Grundy Center within Palermo Township serving as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  48. Hype for the Future 194GRI: Grundy County, Iowa

    Overview Grundy County is a county located in the central portion of the State of Iowa along Routes 14 and 175 with the City of Grundy Center within Palermo Township serving as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026

  49. Hype for the Future 194GRI: Grundy County, Iowa

    Overview Grundy County is a county located in the central portion of the State of Iowa along Routes 14 and 175 with the City of Grundy Center within Palermo Township serving as the county seat.

    novatopflex.wordpress.com/2026