The turnpike is confronting problems head on

As the CEO of the Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission, I would like to respond to your editorial about the recent actions taken by the attorney general's office relating to our agency ("Get Politics Out: It's the Only Way to Fix the Pennsylvania Turnpike," March 20).

I can assure your readers that the conduct alleged by the office does not reflect the dedication of our hard-working staff members who keep our road open and safe for customers.

In the past two years, the turnpike commission instituted a more rigorous, transparent process for awarding professional-services contracts to ensure that only the most-qualified firms are considered. In addition, we created an office of compliance and provided sufficient resources to ensure that employee actions remain above reproach at every level. We formed a diversity and inclusion department to attract a more diverse pool of potential business partners to bid on our projects.

Earlier this week, we began a review of any active contracts awarded during the time frame in question. And we are forming an advisory group to review and critique all current procurement policies and procedures.

Our customers, our employees and our business partners deserve no less.

Rest assured, I understand the significant challenges that lie ahead for this organization, but I have a team in place that's equipped to confront them head on. The commission has made great strides the past two years, but all involved realize that we are just getting started.

MARK P. COMPTON
CEO
Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission
Middletown, Pa.