In the near future, I plan to introduce legislation to require PennDOT to study covered bridges across the Commonwealth, identify those with potential hazards for motorcyclists and cyclists, and place warning signs at each entrance of bridges found to have such hazards.

Covered bridges are a distinct part of Pennsylvania’s past and should be maintained and used in an effort to preserve our heritage. In fact, Pennsylvania has the most covered bridges in the United States, with approximately 219 still in use despite their relative rarity compared to other bridge types across the Commonwealth. However, covered bridges can pose a significant safety risk for motorcyclists and cyclists due to hazards like raised joints, gaps, depressions, loose planks, and other irregularities, which have the potential to injure riders if they are unaware of these dangers.

To that end, my legislation will require PennDOT to conduct a study of all covered bridges to identify those with hazards that pose risks to motorcyclists and cyclists. Based on the study’s findings, PennDOT will develop and post warning signs at each entrance of covered bridges identified as hazardous, indicating potential safety risks for individuals operating a motorcycle or bicycle. This legislation will reduce safety risks for motorcyclists and cyclists across the Commonwealth by ensuring targeted warnings are placed where they are most needed.

I hope you will consider co-sponsoring this important legislation to allow our motorcyclists and cyclists to be aware of potential safety hazards as they traverse covered bridges across the Commonwealth.