College Board Appoints Interim VP, Approves Road Easement
The Pennsylvania College of Technology Board of Directors has recently taken significant steps, including the appointment of an interim vice president and the approval of a crucial road easement.
Appointment of Interim Vice President
During their December meeting, the board approved Kyle Smith as the interim Vice President of College Relations. Smith previously served as the executive director of College Relations and the Penn College Foundation. He succeeds Loni Kline, who held the position since 2017.
New Road Easement Agreement
In addition to the appointment, the board also approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a right-of-way easement for Airport Road. This easement, requested by the Lycoming County Airport Authority, aims to extend Montour Street in Montoursville Borough to provide additional access to the airport.
Pat Marty, Chief Government & International Relations Officer at the college, explained the importance of this project. He stated, “This initiative has multiple reasons behind it and has been years in the making.” The project is expected to enhance the arrival sequence for the college, especially for the Lumley Aviation Center.
Technical Details of the Easement
The road extension will require adjustments to ensure safe passage for large vehicles, such as 53-foot trailers, particularly when crossing railroad tracks. Marty emphasized, “It’s not a high-speed line, but stopping a train is challenging.”
Currently owned by the borough, Airport Road needs to be vacated to allow the airport authority to open it fully. This transition involves the college’s agreement to transfer roadway responsibilities to the authority, with a plan to revert ownership of the old road post-construction.
Future Developments and Strategic Planning
Furthermore, the board reviewed the college’s mission, vision, and values. Dr. Andrea Campbell and Dr. Jennifer McLean led a committee that conducted this review and contributed to the development of the college’s strategic plan for 2026 to 2030.
The next meeting of the board is scheduled for 3 p.m. on February 5, where further discussions and decisions regarding the college’s future initiatives will take place.
