CRANBERRY TWP — Business leaders will hear an update next month on the Route 228 Improvement Project.

The project will be the focus of the Cranberry Chamber of Commerce's Cranberry Connections program Oct. 10 at the Pittsburgh Marriott North, 100 Cranberry Woods Drive.

The chamber is asking those who want to attend to call Linda Rocco at 724-776-4806, Ext. 1118 by Oct. 6.

Registration begins at 8 a.m. and the informational meeting will be at 8:30 a.m.

"Business leaders will get detailed information on what improvements are proposed, the project funding, and the current status. The group will also discuss how businesses can voice their support for the project," said John Trant, township chief strategic planning officer, who will attend.

The Route 228 improvement project has been evolving for more than eight years, but it has been stalled for several years because of a $10 million gap in funding.

Those attending the meeting also will receive a Route 228 informational packet with materials about the project.

"The 228 project will have a positive impact on businesses throughout the 228 corridor by providing better traffic flow. The township is working with the Cranberry Area Chamber of Commerce to provide accurate information on the status of the project and asking the business community to get involved by voicing their support," Trant said.

Earlier this month, township officials called for a scaled-back plan in hopes of jump starting both the road work and the proposed Simon Property Group mixed use development.

The development has been projected to contain nearly 1 million square feet of retail shops, offices and residential units.

That project has been in limbo for nearly two years because of the road funding issues.

Trant said the township has gotten no word from the state regarding the scaled back project.