Efforts to Expedite Bridge Permitting in Luzerne County
In an effort to accelerate infrastructure projects, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy expressed a need for swifter federal permitting processes during a visit to the shuttered Nanticoke-West Nanticoke Bridge. The bridge, which plays a crucial role in local connectivity, is expected to remain closed until at least 2029 unless permitting can be expedited.
Standing before the closed bridge, Duffy emphasized the inefficiencies in the current system. “We already have a bridge here, right? We got a bridge, and if there was a toad that was going to be impacted, it was already impacted,” he stated. Although toads are not hindering the bridge’s replacement, federal environmental permitting is cited as a significant delay by Luzerne County officials.
Two Bridges Await Construction
The historic Nanticoke-West Nanticoke bridge, which was originally built in 1914, has been a vital link for the region. Its closure, ordered by county manager Romilda Crocamo on March 20, 2025, followed a state inspection that revealed severe rust in the weight-carrying beams. Approximately 7,000 vehicles traveled the bridge daily, according to Nicholas Vough, Luzerne County’s director of project management. He noted that the replacement project is not anticipated to begin until at least 2029.
Vough explained that Modjeski and Masters Inc., a Mechanicsburg-based engineering firm, has been tasked with designing the new structure. The initial design contract cost approximately $1 million. While the total project cost remains uncertain, the county secured a $54 million grant from gambling revenues.
“It doesn’t look too bad from the top, but as soon as you go below, it’s horrible,” Vough commented. He further elaborated that various surveys, including environmental and animal studies, are necessary before construction can proceed, contributing to the extended timeline.
In addition to Nanticoke-West Nanticoke, the Firefighters’ Memorial Bridge, connecting Pittston to West Pittston, has been closed since August 2021. Pre-construction activities for this bridge are expected to commence shortly, Pittston Mayor Michael Lombardo indicated, with reopening projected within the next couple of years.
Calls for Federal Partnership
County manager Romilda Crocamo called on Secretary Duffy to ensure federal support for the bridge projects. “Luzerne County is committed to rebuilding this bridge and reviving this lifeline. We are not asking Washington for a favor. We are asking Washington to be a partner in something that we are already committed to do,” she asserted.
Duffy’s visit to the area was at the invitation of Congressman Rob Bresnahan, who highlighted the importance of bridge infrastructure, stating, “When you’re about to go across this bridge, it doesn’t care if you’re a Republican or a Democrat or your socio-economic status.” Bresnahan added that the closures impact everyone, including first responders who face delays due to detours.
