Lehigh Times

Senator Jarrett Coleman and Representative Ryan Mackenzie have announced the allocation of a state grant amounting to nearly $541,000 for the replacement of a bridge along Buckery Road in Heidelberg Township. This funding comes through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA).

The bridge over Jordan Creek was severely damaged by Tropical Storm Isaias and has remained closed since 2020. The closure has caused debris and sediment to enter Jordan Creek, affecting water quality for communities downstream.

"This grant fully funds the necessary bridge work without any cost being passed along to taxpayers. Instead, gaming proceeds will pay for the replacement. Access will be restored for residents and the quality of the water below will no longer be compromised. This is great news, and I’m glad I could advocate for the funding to make it happen," stated Coleman.

The project involves constructing a new bridge with paving, guiderails, stream diversion, grading, site restoration, erosion control, and sediment management.

"For more than four years, township residents have been forced to detour around the bridge. The detour has also negatively impacted school bus routes and caused delays in emergency response times," Mackenzie noted. "In addition, the deteriorating bridge continues to pollute the creek with sediment and debris, affecting its status as a high-quality cold-water fishery. I am pleased this project can finally move forward with help from Harrisburg."

The CFA operates as an independent agency within Pennsylvania's Department of Community and Economic Development. It manages numerous economic development and community improvement programs across Pennsylvania.

Funding for this grant was provided through CFA’s Local Share Account (LSA) Program using revenue generated by casinos.