For Immediate Release
June 28, 2007

CONTACT:
Colleen Greer
Phone: 717-787-6801
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Weekly Column: Recreational Tips for the Summer Travel Season

With the 4th of July upon us, it's the perfect time to remind Pennsylvania travelers to take the proper safety precautions over the coming months. It's also important to let citizens know of all the quality recreational opportunities available in Pennsylvania – the challenge is not finding something to do, but rather deciding which outdoor experience to pursue next.

In preparation of summer or weekend getaways with family and friends, I encourage all Pennsylvanians to be mindful of their safety while traveling on the Commonwealth's roadways. The easiest ways to be safe this summer season is to avoid speeding, drinking and driving, and remembering to always buckle-up when behind the wheel.

Just in time for summer travel, the Pennsylvania State Police has been reminding drivers that wearing a seat belt is required by state law. Motorists cited for a violation who are not buckled-up may receive a second ticket for not wearing a seat belt. As part of their statewide campaign, state troopers are conducting regulatory checkpoints where they have been urging all motorists to buckle-up.

To help keep travelers informed of major construction developments underway in the state, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has made available an online map of highway and bridge projects. The map will help assist drivers in allowing extra time or to plan an alternate route around potential delays. PennDOT's highway construction advisory can be accessed at www.dot.state.pa.us/Workzone_map/map.html. The Pennsylvania Turnpike's Real Time Turnpike Conditions System also allows drivers to view current roadway conditions, travel advisories, and construction advisories. To inquire about specific interstate road conditions, motorists may visit www.paturnpike.com/webmap/PTCIE.htm.

In addition to roadway safety, I encourage everyone to take the first step toward planning a Pennsylvania outdoor experience by calling my office at 787-6801 or 1-888-PICCOLA. I can provide a Pennsylvania State Parks & Forests Recreational Guide and Highway Map, which includes details about activities and camping facilities available at all state parks and forests. The recreation guide outlines information on the cabins, campsites, and picnic pavilions available for reservation. Rate information and reservations are available by calling 1-888-PA-PARKS (727-2757).

The Recreational Guide and Highway Map also provides an extensive chart listing information about swimming and biking areas, as well as boating and fishing opportunities in our parks and forests. For additional details on the state's parks, forests, greenways, and trails, not to mention a number of outdoor adventures and natural treasures, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' website at www.dcnr.state.pa.us.

Also available for boaters and anglers is the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission's state map. This map includes information about state parks, forests, historic sites, and museums, but the best part of the map is the charts providing information about the many fishing and boating areas across the Commonwealth. This resource can be accessed from the commission's website at www.fish.state.pa.us.

Last, but certainly not least, is Pennsylvania's official 2007 Visitors Guide. This guide highlights recreational opportunities and tourist attractions in the regions across the Commonwealth. I encourage you to contact my office about these publications and make plans this summer to visit our state parks and forests so you can enjoy the natural beauty of our state.