Murtha's Death Creates Challenges For Businesses Outside District

The recent death of U.S. Rep. John Murtha will not only create many challenges in Cambria County, but also outside his district, business leaders said Thursday.

Local economic leaders said the 12th district doesn't cross into Blair County, but businesses there said his influence has always been felt and seen in the 9th district.

The Blair County Chamber of Commerce held a meeting Thursday morning at Lakemont Park to talk about life after Murtha and how to take steps toward regional collaboration.

The guest speaker, longtime Murtha supporter and Johnstown businessman Bob Eyer, said Murtha's impact went well across district lines. Eyer cited the Gamesa wind turbine plant, which employs a good number of Blair County residents.

Eyer said, "Certainly we're concerned about the future, but we're actually very bullish as to the sustainability of the defense industry in our region. The companies have built a quality workforce and have invested in infrastructure and learned the industry. I (they are) think are going to do well."

Eyer said the mood of local economic leaders is "cautiously optimistic." He said planning for the Johnstown Showcase For Commerce -- made famous by Murtha and transformed into a lucrative draw for Johnstown -- is moving forward and will still be held this summer.

Stay with WJACTV.com and WJAC-TV News for continuing coverage.

Previous Stories: March 3, 2010: Murtha Honored With Special Ceremony On Capitol Hill February 18, 2010: Naval Hospital Reviewing Late Rep. Murtha's Care February 17, 2010: Mourners Gather To Bid Final Farewell To Rep. Murtha February 16, 2010: Filling US Rep John Murtha's Seat In This Difficult Time February 15, 2010: Veterans Remember U.S. Rep. John Murtha February 14, 2010: Thousands Say Goodbye To US Rep. John Murtha February 13, 2010: Preparations Made For US Rep. John Murtha's Funeral February 12, 2010: Johnstown Students Learn About US Rep. John Murtha February 12, 2010: Detours, Shuttle Service Planned For Murtha's Funeral Services February 10, 2010: Funeral Plans Finalized For U.S. Rep. John Murtha February 10, 2010: Wa. Rep Plans To Look Into Murtha's Surgery February 9, 2010: Vets React To News Of Rep. Murtha's Death February 8, 2010: Rep. Shuster Reacts To Rep. Murtha's Death February 8, 2010: Rep. Glenn Thompson: Murtha's Expertise Will Be Missed February 8, 2010: Congressman John Murtha Dies At Age 77