Section 652 - Findings and declaration of policy(a) It is hereby determined and declared as a matter of legislative finding: (1) That the welfare and vitality of the Commonwealth, the satisfactory movement of people and goods within the Commonwealth, and the effectiveness of highway, industrial development and other programs are being jeopardized by the deterioration or inadequate provision of rural and intercity common carrier surface transportation facilities and services, the intensification of traffic congestion, railroad bankruptcies and the lack of coordinated transportation and other development planning on a comprehensive basis.(2) That State financial assistance for the development of efficient and coordinated intercity common carrier surface transportation systems, facilities and services is essential to the solution of these Statewide problems.(3) That efficient and coordinated intercity common carrier surface transportation systems, facilities and services will promote the public health, safety, convenience and welfare.(4) That modern, efficient intercity common carrier surface transportation is a necessary part of a balanced transportation system.(5) That the Regional Rail Reorganization Act of 1973 (Pub.L. 93-236) requires State participation in the continuation of branch line rail service.(b) Therefore, it is hereby declared to be the policy of the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to promote the health, safety, convenience and welfare of its inhabitants by means of State financed projects and financial assistance for the development of efficient and coordinated rural and intercity common carrier surface transportation systems, facilities and services and to provide free or reduced fare transit service for the elderly. Such purposes are hereby declared to be public uses.1976, Feb. 11, P.L. 14, No. 10, § 2, imd. effective. Amended 1980, Oct. 17, P.L. 1083, No. 183, § 1, imd. effective.