Thursday, October 5, 2023

Pennsylvania Senate Unanimously Passes Bill to Name Bridges After Fallen PennDOT Workers

In a unanimous show of support, the Pennsylvania Senate has passed a bill to commemorate the sacrifices of Department of Transportation (PennDOT) workers who lost their lives in the line of duty. 

The legislation, proposed by Sen. Dave Argall (R-29), aims to honor these fallen heroes by naming bridges in their memory.

"I'm thankful that the memory of the people in our area who lost their lives working to fix our roads and bridges will be honored for decades to come," expressed Sen. Dave Argall, the driving force behind the bill.

Four bridges will soon bear the names of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the safety and convenience of the community they served.
  • William Hoffman, who lost his life in October of 1970, will be forever remembered by a bridge on State Route 443 in Walker Township, Schuylkill County. This bridge proudly spans the Little Schuylkill River, a testament to his dedication.
  • Ralph Strubinger, who lost his life in October of 1977, will be posthumously honored with a bridge on Bridge Street in Weissport, Carbon County.
  • Joseph Zienkiewicz, who passed away in June of 1981, will be commemorated by a bridge on Little Mountain Road in Union Township, Schuylkill County, where it crosses Little Catawissa Creek.
  • Caitlin McGarry, who passed away in April of 2017, will be remembered through a bridge on State Route 443 in Schuylkill Haven, Schuylkill County, spanning the Schuylkill River.
Since the year 1970, a total of 90 PennDOT employees have tragically lost their lives while carrying out their duties, highlighting the perils faced by those who work diligently to maintain and improve Pennsylvania's transportation infrastructure.

The bill has now advanced to the desk of Governor Shapiro for his signature.  It is anticipated that the Governor will sign the bill into law, ensuring that the memory of these fallen PennDOT workers is preserved for generations to come, as a reminder of their dedication and sacrifice in the service of their communities.