Central Pa. state representatives laud I-83 South Bridge funding
Rep. Patty Kim July 17, 2024 | 5:08 PM
HARRISBURG, July 17 – Three central Pennsylvania House Democrats said they are pleased to welcome historic federal funding for replacement of the John Harris Memorial Bridge.
The Federal Highway Administration’s $500 million Large Bridge Project Grant, secured by the Shapiro administration through the Biden administration, is the largest grant in state history for a transportation project, according to Gov. Josh Shapiro.
According to PennDOT, the I-83 South Bridge is reaching the end of its serviceable lifespan. In addition to replacing the bridge, the Lemoyne interchange will be reconfigured, the South Third Street bridge in Lemoyne will be replaced, and the viaduct from the Susquehanna River to Cameron Street, including the Front Street/2nd Street interchange, will be reconstructed.
“We greatly appreciate the federal and state governments working together to secure this truly historic funding,” said state Rep. Patty Kim, D-Cumberland/Dauphin. “Investing in the greater Harrisburg region is always a wise move. Enhanced infrastructure not only improves daily commutes but also drives economic growth, connects us to opportunities and ensures a resilient and thriving region for generations to come.”
“This historic infrastructure funding for the I-83 South Bridge will enhance transportation safety and reliability, create local jobs, and bolster our economy, without creating tolls and congesting local traffic,” said state Rep. David Madsen, D-Dauphin. “It is a great time to make this investment because it not only ensures the continued connectivity for over 125,000 vehicles daily but also signifies a monumental step forward for our community's future growth and prosperity.”
“This historic $500 million federal grant to replace the John Harris Memorial Bridge recognizes the economic importance of York, Cumberland and Dauphin counties to Pennsylvania’s economic health and that of Interstate 83 to the entire mid-Atlantic region,” said state Rep. Justin Fleming, D-Dauphin. “Not only does the bridge daily carry approximately 125,000 commuters to places of employment and residents to local businesses in the tri-county area, enabling Central Pennsylvania’s thriving economy, the bridge is a linchpin connecting Harrisburg and Baltimore, supporting thousands of jobs provided by distribution facilities in the Harrisburg area. This grant powerfully demonstrates how federal-state partnerships deliver critical regional and national benefits.”