PITTSTON, Pa. — It's been almost three years since the closure of the Firefighter's Memorial Bridge that connects Pittston and West Pittston, and access to the bridge that crosses the Susquehanna River could be blocked for at least another three years.
PennDOT says it will be a while before they can tear down the bridge and build a replacement and that a big hurdle is rerouting a gas line that goes under the bridge.
The closure has caused some traffic congestion and frustration for drivers and pedestrians.
Many are happy to see renderings pop up on West Pittston's Facebook page, showing plans for a new Firefighters Memorial Bridge and a new Dale J. Kridlo Memorial Bridge spanning the river.
"I'm excited as someone who uses a bike frequently. I'm excited to see that they're prioritizing active transportation. Because I think without active transportation, the congestion in this area is going to get a lot worse," Greg Ahlswede said.
The renderings change the elevation of the bridge, proposing that it be built higher than the previous bridges and well above the 100-year flood mark.
The proposed bridges share a look with minor detail differences along the railings.
"I feel like if we're going to get a new bridge, at least give what we're expecting," Courtney Blacer said. "Make it look nice. Make sure it's stable and long-lasting."
If you want to see 3-D versions of the renderings and share your thoughts with officials, a meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Wyoming Area Secondary Center auditorium in Exeter.