Several scathing comments made at the Whitehall Township Board of Commissioners workshop over relations between PennDOT and the township have prompted a state transportation official to sit down with Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr.

Hozza said reports in the media that board members said they have no trust in PennDOT came to an official's attention. He contends a conference will help clear the air and move state road projects forward. It will most likely take place in August.

The mayor said he is preparing an agenda of PennDOT items that concern the township. For example, the township wants clarification on the Fifth Street Bridge in Fullerton.

PennDOT initially said it would be reconstructed as a pedestrian bridge. Later, after pressure from the township, PennDOT relented. Hozza said he is asking for a progress report on where the bridge project stands.

Hozza stated the intersection widening at Third and Grape streets is another matter on the front burner, particularly since the township bought a real estate office building at the corner and had the wooden structure razed.

Flooding at Mickley and MacArthur roads when a heavy downpour occurs will also be discussed. Hozza said the underground stormwater pipe from near Taco Bell across the roadway needs to be upgraded. He will also talk with PennDOT about maintenance issues relating to state roads in the township and the possibility of the township taking ownership of additional state roads.