Re: The Historic Skinners Falls Bridge

In conversation with friends who live in Milanville, I am responding to their desire to know what is happening now. On September 23, 2021, PENNDOT’s consultant, AECOM.com held its second meeting.  Only those invited were allowed to attend, and I was  not on the Zoom call, but was able to speak with Laurie Ramie at the Upper Delaware Council, who has OK’d this update. This is the  timeline going forward. The most important item is at the end.

*  The consultant, AECOM, to complete drafting a Purpose and Need study, and make it available to the Project Advisory Committee, agencies, and general public for review, with a 30 day comment period.  Estimated to happen by the end of the year.

*  AECOM will evaluate the comments received, and refine the Purpose and Needs document.

*  AECOM will finalize the Purpose and Needs document, which will “inform consideration of alternatives” regarding the repair, or replacement of the Bridge.

Comments continue to be accepted via skinnersfallsbridge@aecom.com or 610-234-5148.  To comment directly to PennDot, Susan Williams:  susawillia@pa.gov.

Make Your Voice Heard: Get Your Comments In!

I plan to comment on the indisputable fact that all roads leading to the bridge from NY or PA are inadequate in size or weight limit (10 tons) to accommodate larger/heavier vehicles.  The road on NY side cannot be widened because of the railroad crossing, and on the PA side, the nature of the roads/terrain does not allow a 40 ton tractor trailer to make necessary turns or travel safely, and the roads can only accommodate 10 ton maximum weight.

So far, comments favor repair/rehabilitation of the existing bridge keeping the 10 ton weight limit.  So let’s keep comments coming in to support that decision. Also, you may consider a contribution to Damascus Citizens for Sustainability (DCS). Their legal team costs money.  This issue is likely to take more time, and more money, than anyone would like.  Go to the DCS website to make a donation and look for further updates on the status of the Milanville/Skinners Falls Bridge.

Thank you for all you’ve done.
Susan Sullivan