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A proposed plan by the Port Authority focuses on increasing bus and rail service

PITTSBURGH — The Port Authority is proposing a massive expansion plan over a 25-year period that will connect more communities to downtown Pittsburgh.

According to the agency, focusing on rapid bus transit and rail service is a top priority.

For Celeste Chanz, a mother who relies on public transportation, the expansion commitment is peace of mind for her and her family.

”That would a better thing if she could get better access and more stops. She’s a senior and having to walk shorter distances would be a wonderful thing,” said Chanz.

Joe Rostan, who owns the BeanThru in Bellevue, supports the plan, hoping his business will see a positive impact.

“Anything that drives traffic to our business and other businesses would be welcome,” said Rostan.

It has been a tough year for businesses. Rostan tells Channel 11 he has lost most of his commuter traffic.

”If people get back into their normal routine ... their own car, public transit, the new rails, we welcome it. Anything getting people back to work, back to normal — back to drinking our coffee,” said Rostan.

For Stoke’s Grill along McKnight Road, managers are hoping that the boost in service will help get employees and customers to and from their business.

”For them to get to work reliably and on time, and definitely in the evening, service ends early,” said Jason Stoeckle of Stoke’s Grill.

The prospect of new, high-capacity transit lines include buses and light rails along 279 North and the I-79 corridor.

“We’ve always been very aware of how close we are to the downtown area. To have better access and have people come up ... reliable service, coming up for lunch, dinner, it would be great,” said Stoeckle.

After fighting to stay open, Rostan is now focusing on a new location in Wexford.

He says these proposals would make locally owned businesses like his more accessible for everyone.

“We’re opening a third location near (the) new AHN location in Wexford. Anything that can drive people toward that, or make it more accessible, we’d more than welcome it,” said Stoeckle.

You can learn more about the Port Authority’s plan here.