Senator Brown E-Newsletter

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Update on East Stroudsburg Exit 308 on I-80

As we all know, there has been ongoing work at Exit 308 along I-80 in East Stroudsburg for an extended period of time now. I want to share some important updates on this project:

When I-80 was first built in the Stroudsburg area in 1970 as part of the Eisenhower Interstate System, the standards for on and off-ramps were much shorter than what is required today. Over the years, this has created safety concerns for drivers, particularly during heavy traffic periods. The Exit 308 project is designed to address these issues by widening and lengthening the ramps, improving traffic flow, and making the interchange safer.

In addition to safer, wider lanes and improved lighting, there will be two new stone-finished roundabouts that greet travelers with a “Welcome to East Stroudsburg” sign. I-80 itself will be widened to three lanes, and Prospect Street and Brown Street by Lehigh Valley Hospital–Pocono will be expanded to help traffic flow more smoothly to the hospital and East Stroudsburg University.

Fifty-seven percent of the project will be completed by Labor Day. Major progress includes replacing and upgrading water, sewer, communication, and electric utilities; installing 10,000 feet of new drainage pipes; removing the old Prospect Street bridge and completing Phase 1 of the new one; and building retaining and sound walls along the eastbound lanes.

Still to come are the final widening of Prospect Street and completion of the new bridge, the construction of the roundabouts, the widening of both east and westbound lanes, and the permanent alignment of the new on and off-ramps. Additional retaining walls on both sides of the highway will also be completed.

The project remains on schedule and is anticipated to be completed by late 2027.

Senate Votes to Improve Healthcare

The Senate approved several measures this year to improve the delivery of health care in our communities.

Among the new laws we passed was a measure establishing a statewide stroke registry to deliver vital information to EMS providers and hospitals, ensuring the best treatment possible. Other laws aim to reduce overdose deaths by incorporating real-time reporting by EMS providers into the statewide overdose mapping system and giving EMS personnel permanent authority to leave behind a dose of naloxone at overdose scenes, placing this lifesaving medication in the hands of a caregiver or loved one.

Critical measures passed by the Senate and awaiting action in the House of Representatives include bills to strengthen Pennsylvania’s no-cost breast cancer screening law by ensuring diagnostic imaging is fully covered, and preserving prescription drug coverage for more than 10,000 seniors.

You can review other measures we passed to improve health care and address other subjects here.

Golden Slipper Road Set to Reopen

I am happy to share that Golden Slipper Road in Pocono Township will reopen this Friday afternoon, August 29th.

As stated at the start of this closure, I have been in regular communication with the contractor to ensure the project stayed on track. Based on my most recent update, the contractor confirmed that work has progressed faster than anticipated, allowing it to reopen just ahead of schedule.

I will continue to monitor the final days of the project, as I know this closure has placed a burden on many residents. I appreciate the collaboration, and I want to thank everyone for their patience and understanding as this project was completed.

Scenes from the 40th District

This week’s photo winner comes courtesy of was captured by Marsha in Canadensis, with a beautiful morning sunrise! Marsha’s photo has been shared on my social media and posted to the 40th Senatorial District Photo Gallery.

Interested in showcasing your photography skills?

I am inviting residents of the 40th Senatorial District to share their photography and help capture the beauty and character of our community. Whether it’s a stunning landscape, a lively community event, or a cherished historical landmark, I encourage you to submit photos that highlight the unique aspects of our district, which includes parts of Lackawanna and Wayne counties, and all of Monroe County.

Click here to submit your work and learn more.

Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law

Students are heading back to class, so we all need to be on the lookout for children around school buses and bus stops.

Some reminders about Pennsylvania’s School Bus Stopping Law:

  • Motorists must stop at least 10 feet away from school buses that have their red lights flashing and stop arm activated.
  • Motorists must stop when they are behind a bus, meeting the bus or approaching an intersection where a bus is stopped.
  • Motorists following or traveling alongside a school bus must also stop until the red lights have stopped flashing, the stop arm is withdrawn, and all children have reached safety.

School districts are permitted to install automated camera systems on buses to enforce the law. You can find more information about the law and penalties, and safety tips for children, here.

Happy Labor Day!

Labor Day is a time to celebrate the workers who make our communities thrive while providing for their families. No matter what your vocation or whether you’re an active employee or a retiree, I hope you enter this last stretch of summer with a wonderful holiday weekend.

Family, Patriotism, and Football

Right before the Valley View opening football game that I attended last Friday – I caught this absolutely beautiful moment of brotherly love between Tmsn Jamie Heid Jr/ Norfolk Naval Station and his younger brother, Ethan Heid. Jamie came home due to a death in the family – this picture shows so much love, life and patriotism.

Sending them both and their family blessings!

Honoring South Stroudsburg Postal Worker

Last week, the South Stroudsburg neighborhood came together to recognize their postal worker, Brandon Youngken, in recognition of his extraordinary compassion and service.

Brandon went above and beyond his duties when he noticed a local resident’s P.O. Box overflowing, leading him to check on the individual’s well-being. Though the story ended in sadness, Brandon’s kindness and concern touched the entire community.

We are grateful for his dedication and the care he shows to those he serves every day. While I couldn’t be there personally, I was pleased to provide a plaque to recognize his service.

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