Penn Pike chief says attack shows they can't prevail on merits of debate

Pennsylvania Turnpike CEO Joe Brimmeier had this to say in response to yesterday's Commonwealth Foundation "event":

"It is unfortunate when those who cannot prevail on the public-policy debate resort to such negative attacks. This is nothing more than a continuation of a smear campaign that is undeserving of a response.

"We're proud of all we've accomplished, and with good cause: The Pennsylvania Turnpike continues to earn favorable ratings from Wall Street when compared to similar agencies nationwide.

"Our superior credit rating has enabled us to provide $962.5 million in new transportation
funding to the state in the past 12 months alone. These ratings come from independent professionals who look at our financial performance, not political activists with an axe to grind."

Response to response

Matthew Brouillette president of the Commonwealth Foundation responds: "This is not a smear campaign, but a recitation of the facts.

"Which ones does Joe dispute?

"Further, his refuge of a 'superior credit rating' collapses in light of the downgrading by both Fitch and Standard & Poor’s."

see http://tollroadsnews.com/node/3706

for the report to which Joe Brimmeier is referring - second half.

TOLLROADSnews 2008-08-29