The State Senate has approved a bill to rename a section of Interstate 180 in Lycoming County as the Kenneth C. Larson, Jr. Memorial Highway. This decision honors the late veteran and engineer for his contributions to Pennsylvania’s regional development and transportation infrastructure. The measure was sponsored by Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23).
“Kenneth Larson was an accomplished engineer and a visionary whose leadership helped shape the very roads we travel on today,” said Yaw. “His legacy of innovation, mentorship and public service deserves to be remembered by all who benefit from the work he dedicated his life to.”
Larson, a graduate of Bucknell University and U.S. Navy Reserve veteran, began his career at the former Department of Forests and Waters before moving into significant roles within the Department of Highways and later PennDOT. In 1966, he became the youngest district engineer appointed, managing major construction projects across several counties.
He significantly contributed to developing key transportation corridors such as parts of U.S. Route 15 and Interstate 80 while advancing state design processes with computer-aided drafting technology. After his public service tenure, Larson co-founded what would become Larson Design Group, an engineering firm based in Lycoming County.
“Ken Larson was a towering figure in the world of Pennsylvania transportation,” remarked Mark Murawski, retired Lycoming County transportation planner. “Perhaps his greatest legacy beyond advancing the construction of important highway corridors in our Northcentral PA region like Interstate 180 and the modernization of US Route 15 was his clear vision and keen understanding that these highways also helped build vibrant, economically prosperous and safer communities.”
Larson’s influence extended beyond infrastructure; he mentored young engineers, supported local initiatives, and worked to retain skilled professionals in Pennsylvania.
For further information on state-related news or updates from Senator Yaw’s office, constituents are encouraged to visit www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or follow him on social media platforms Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT:
Elizabeth Weitzel
717-787-3280
