I am both saddened and perplexed at the official news that the Pond Eddy Bridge is going to be replaced. One of the truly breathtaking sights in this area is coming around the bend on Route 97, from either direction, and seeing that beautiful, historic structure set against the river and the surrounding wooded hills. I can’t imagine ever tiring of it.

While the bridge is old, and somewhat rickety, it seems to serve its limited purpose. So why exactly does it need to be replaced? And why is New York contributing to the project when it will really only benefit Pennsylvania residents, mostly part-time at that? It just makes no sense, especially in a time when public funds are so scarce.

As many have speculated, there seems to be a hidden agenda here. We’ll certainly find out eventually, but since we, the taxpayers, are footing the bill, we have a right to know the truth up front. At the moment, it appears we aren’t getting it.

Steven Kosmacher

Barryville, NY