Bill To Be Introduced To Name Bridge After Joe Paterno

State Representative Michael Regan, a Republican from Northern York County, thinks it is time to “honor the football career of Joe Paterno.”

Regan plans to introduce a bill soon that would make the Pennsylvania Turnpike bridge over the Susquehanna River the Joseph V. Paterno Memorial Bridge, if passed.

The bridge opened in 2007 and carries around 35,000 vehicles every day. It carries the state’s major east/west highway that moves through the Capitol Region.

Since the end of the Sandusky Scandal, many buildings and structures with JoePa’s name on it have had the name removed. This bill could potentially reverse that trend.

While a bridge dedication isn’t equal to the return of Paterno’s statue outside Beaver Stadium, this recognition could still be seen as a win for Paterno loyalists. Following the scandal, Nike removed his name from its child care center and Brown University removed his name from its head football coach position.

Though the bill has not been formally introduced, a letter seeking co-sponsors shows Regan’s inentions. The bill would need to pass in both the House and Senate, and then be signed by the governor.

Attempts to reach Regan on Sunday afternoon for comment were unsuccessful.

POPULAR STORIES:

Community Profile: Boalsburg Means Memorial Day, Museums, Tussey Mountain and More

Carnival Features Rides, Fried Food, and Bingo to Support Boalsburg Fire Company

Alum Unveils Corbett’s Involvement in Freeh Selection for Investigation

Flames Destroy Backyard Deck, Menace Home, Alert Neighbors Save the Day

Penn State Football: For Franklin, Data Is The Key In Season Evaluations

State College Man Sentenced for Dealing Heroin

Penn State Football: Caravan Comes To A Close, And Probably Just In Time

Centre County Right to Know Dispute Continues to Grow