SKINNERS FALLS, NY and MILANVILLE, PA — A proposal from the Damascus Citizens for Sustainability (DCS) to acquire the Skinners Falls Bridge is 'unworkable,' according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT). 

In a statement, PennDOT responded to the DCS proposal that would have given DCS full responsibility and liability for the bridge, as well as a sum of money equal to the estimated costs of the bridge's rehabilitation, an amount DCS pegs at $16 million. 

"PennDOT would like to work with Damascus Citizens for Sustainability on mitigation options, but the proposal to acquire the bridge is not workable.  The bridge is currently in a failed condition.  An emergency action to remove the bridge needs to be completed before the start of the river recreational season for the safety of the river users.  PennDOT cannot delay that emergency response.

"Furthermore, the Skinners Falls Bridge is owned by the Pennsylvania – New York Joint Interstate Bridge Commission.  The Pennsylvania legislation (Act of July 25, 1917, P.L. 1180 as amended by Act No. 169 of 1975) that created the commission does not provide for transferring ownership of the bridges.  Transferring ownership of the bridge in location, therefore, would require legislative action.

"PennDOT welcomes discussions with Damascus Citizens for Sustainability about mitigation for this emergency project.  However, PennDOT cannot delay the emergency response," reads the statement. 

While work to prepare the site for the demolition of the Skinners Falls Bridge was planned to start Wednesday, February 26, that has since been pushed back to mid-March, due to weather.