Lycoming News

The December edition of a local TV program hosted by Senator Dave Argall (R-29) focuses on significant transportation projects in the 29th District. The episode highlights the widening of Route 61 between Frackville and St. Clair, showcases the new Reading and Northern Railroad passenger platform and maintenance facility in Nesquehoning, and covers the dedication ceremony for the Caitlin McGarry Memorial Bridge in Schuylkill Haven.

The expansion of Route 61 has been prioritized to enhance road safety. A collaborative effort involving the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, Congressman Dan Meuser (PA-09), Representative Tim Twardzik (R-123), former Representative Neal Goodman, and Senator Argall secured $115 million for this reconstruction project. Construction is now underway.

“For anyone who travels along this road as frequently as I do, this is cause for celebration,” stated Argall. “My Pennsylvania Dutch grandparents in St. Clair knew the perfect word to sum this up: Endlich. Finally!”

The newly opened Reading and Northern Railroad's Nesquehoning passenger train platform is located at the site of the former KME Fire Apparatus plant buildings on Route 54's north side. The complex includes a train maintenance facility, training classrooms, and a gift shop.

“Every new passenger train platform that opens in our area encourages many of the visitors to Jim Thorpe to explore other local communities, supporting local employers and breathing new life into older neighborhoods,” said Argall.

The Columbia Street bridge over the Schuylkill River in Schuylkill Haven was severely damaged by a flood in 2006, making its replacement urgent. The bridge has been dedicated to Caitlin McGarry, a PennDOT engineer from Schuylkill Haven who passed away in 2017.

This edition of the Argall Report will be broadcasted on television and is also available online at https://www.senatorargall.com/argallreport/.

Contact: Jim Brugger