Barring an unexpected economic downturn, the groundwork seems to be in place for considerable new development this year along the Route 356 corridor in southeastern Butler County.

The front page of the Jan. 30 Butler Eagle, under the headline “New possibilities develop along Rt. 356,” outlined some of what is being proposed, such as a medical facility, restaurants, a hotel, and new stores.

Boosting the area’s economic-development prospects are its proximity to Route 28, a fast route to Pittsburgh, and the installation of sanitary sewer service, with more planned north of what’s already in place.

The lack of public sewage facilities probably was the greatest drawback to economic development in prior decades. It would seem that the foundation is in place — or soon will be — for development to significantly expand.

Municipal and county leaders should reflect on how much the southeastern section of the county could benefit if an additional piece of the county’s transportation puzzle were in place. That is a modern, four-lane, limited-access Route 356 that would connect the city of Butler to Route 28.

Having that would open the entire Route 356 corridor from Route 28 to the city to additional residential and business development, possibly boost the county’s tourism industry, and, from the standpoint of the county and municipal governments, as well as school districts, increase tax revenue.

Unfortunately, roadbuilding in the commonwealth has taken a back seat to highway repairs, as well as fixing or replacing the state’s many deteriorated bridges. At this point, it is hard to fathom when a new commitment to roadbuilding will reappear — but it’s safe to conclude that it might not be for a long time.

Nonetheless, there’s no harm in dreaming and being ready with ideas, if and when that time comes.

People here can only wonder what good might be accomplished if funding were available to make major highways in this county such as Routes 8, 356 and 68, and Route 422 between Butler and Moraine State Park, the highways that they deserve to be, because of their significant traffic volume.

The city’s lack of four-lane highway access from all directions continues to limit its economic-development prospects, including possibly keeping the proposed Centre City project on the drawing boards rather than in the process of being constructed.

This county should appreciate the fact that it continues to be a hot spot for development, but it should not be satisfied. It should pursue and welcome more opportunities by working hard to improve critical infrastructure.

The county’s state and federal government representatives must be brought up to date on some of the ideas that are being discussed, so they can watch for funding possibilities. Local-level officials shouldn’t be reluctant to meet with state and federal representatives and government officials.

The Route 356 corridor is the latest reason for this county to feel upbeat. But there would be greater cause for celebration if some of the impediments to expanded development could be overcome.

The Route 356 development that might take place this year should be regarded as just a springboard to even greater progress in subsequent years.