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Editor: The New York–Pennsylvania Joint Interstate Bridge Commission agreement, established in 1919, mandates equal responsibility between Pennsylvania and New York for decisions involving the maintenance, repair, and replacement of bridges spanning the Upper Delaware River. This compact requires cooperative decision-making for all significant actions, including demolition, ensuring that neither state acts unilaterally without mutual consent and commission approval. In light of this longstanding and binding covenant, Pennsylvania’s recent actions regarding the Skinners Falls Bridge raise serious concerns. Since its abrupt closure by PennDOT in 2019, the bridge has been left to rot without adequate maintenance or repair. Now, with PennDOT proposing to demolish the bridge using explosive charges, backed by Governor Shapiro, questions arise about whether the required collaborative process has been followed. Any decision to demolish or replace this bridge must consider public need, traffic flow, and environmental impact. It must also reflect the agreement of both states under the compact. Of course, the safety of the traveling public on land and on the water is paramount. But an adequate replacement must be put in place.

Hear Joe Jencks sing "??? ???? ????? ??? ???" at the link below. Joe will perform live on November 2nd at 7:30 presented by RiverVibes at The Cooperage at 1030 Main St., Honesdale, Pa. He will preach and sing the following morning, Sunday, November 3rd, at 10:15 am, to the Upper Delaware Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at the Narrowsburg Union. Tickets for November 2nd can be obtained here: thecooperageproject.org/events-news/joe-Jencks-concert/