WITF News Stories (Harrisburg)

PennDOT is finalizing plans for a significant rehabilitation project on the Market Street Bridge in Harrisburg, aimed at improving safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. The project, which is expected to begin next summer and last about six years, will include widening sidewalks and adding a separate utility bridge. Public feedback is being solicited through an open house and online submissions until September 7th.

A new nonprofit in the Hershey area, Mothers on the Move, is providing free weekly dance lessons for new mothers. Founded by Vita Abedi, the initiative aims to foster community connections and promote wellness among mothers, while also addressing childcare needs through stipends.

Lancaster County officials, led by State Senator James Malone, are urging the Pennsylvania Senate to pass legislation that would allow municipalities to pause data center development. They argue that the rapid growth of the industry necessitates a careful examination of its implications, and they are pushing for immediate action rather than waiting for the next scheduled session in late September.

With Election Day approaching, Pennsylvania's Democratic Party has initiated a statewide press tour titled '100% MAGA' to criticize Republican gubernatorial candidate Stacey Garrity. They argue that Garrity would closely align with Donald Trump's policies, highlighting her lack of opposition to the Trump administration's actions. The campaign is framed as a direct challenge to Garrity's integrity and her stance on key issues affecting Pennsylvanians.

On August 12th, residents of Central Pennsylvania will witness a partial solar eclipse, with the moon obscuring about 7% of the sun at its peak. Experts emphasize the importance of using proper eye protection, such as eclipse glasses, to safely view the event. For those without glasses, alternative viewing methods are suggested, and NASA will provide live coverage for those unable to see it directly.

The Trump administration is proposing significant changes to the Head Start program, which could impact its effectiveness for low-income families. Experts and parents express concern over increased child-to-teacher ratios and reduced mandatory hours, while local programs like Capital Area Head Start pledge to maintain their commitment to the community regardless of these changes.

A measles outbreak is spreading in Lancaster County and nearby areas in Pennsylvania, with 226 cases reported this year. Health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated as the school year approaches, fearing an increase in pediatric cases.

Recent data reveals that assaults on staff at Pennsylvania's SCI Camp Hill prison have not increased compared to last year, despite claims from the PA State Corrections Officers Association. The association's leader, Mike Oler, misinterpreted the data, leading to calls for harsher punishments. While the number of assaults remained the same, there was an increase in major assaults, prompting discussions on security measures.

The Pennsylvania gubernatorial election is intensifying as both candidates, Josh Shapiro and Stacey Garrity, launch attack ads. Garrity's campaign has introduced a digital miniseries titled 'Twilight Justice' that portrays Shapiro as corrupt, while Shapiro's campaign counters with a TV ad labeling Garrity as 'all MAGA all the time.'

A new law banning handheld device use while driving has led to over 210 citations issued by Pennsylvania State Police in June. Named after a tragic accident victim, the law aims to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, with fines starting at $50 and potentially reaching $200 with additional fees. Law enforcement emphasizes the dangers of distracted driving, equating a brief phone check to driving with eyes closed for a significant distance.

Measles cases are surging in Pennsylvania, marking the largest outbreak in the U.S. in 35 years, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals. Health officials are urging vaccinations, especially in areas like Lancaster County, where vaccination rates are below average. The Pennsylvania Department of Health is recommending an early dose of the vaccine for infants as a preventive measure.

Wu Xiaoping, a civil rights activist, was arrested by local police under a 287G agreement with ICE, highlighting concerns over local law enforcement's cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. After two weeks in detention, he was released but is now required to wear an electronic ankle monitor while awaiting his asylum case. Activists are using Wu's situation to draw attention to the implications of such agreements on immigrant rights.

The YWCA of Greater Harrisburg observed Red Sand Day by filling sidewalk cracks with red sand to symbolize victims of human trafficking. The event highlights the alarming statistics of human trafficking in Central Pennsylvania, where several counties rank among the highest in the state for offenses. Mary Quinn, the YWCA president, emphasizes that vulnerable populations are at greater risk, often trafficked by someone they know rather than through dramatic abductions.

In response to a series of crashes, including a tragic incident involving a 12-year-old boy, Pennsylvania lawmakers are advocating for updates to the state's e-bike laws. State Senator James Malone has introduced a resolution for the Joint State Government Committee to recommend a new regulatory framework, while State Representative Jill Cooper's bill would empower municipalities to set their own rules and increase fines for e-bike violations.

Redding residents participated in the RIVERZILLA Community Day, aimed at cleaning the Schuylkill River and fostering connections with nature. Organizer Bethany Ayers Fisher highlighted the event's role in improving the river's cleanliness and encouraging recreational activities like kayaking. The initiative seeks to enhance community stewardship of the riverfront.

All You Can Incorporated, a Harrisburg nonprofit, is collecting school supplies for families facing financial strain due to rising prices. With school supply costs increasing by nearly 8% and lunch items by 11%, the organization aims to alleviate some of the burden on economically disadvantaged families as they prepare for the new school year.

Three Mile Island is on track to receive nuclear material by the end of the year as it moves towards reopening. The facility, now known as the Christopher M. Crane Clean Energy Center, is expected to obtain its operating license by May 2027, with support from various political and local groups. However, local activist Eric Epstein expresses concerns about the emergency response plan being developed by FEMA.

A coalition of municipalities in Northern Dauphin County has established the Northern Dauphin Emergency Services Authority to manage emergency medical services amid funding challenges. This initiative aims to address the difficulties faced by ambulance associations in covering rising costs and compensating EMTs, with plans to implement a fee for residents to sustain these services.

Central Pennsylvania's Community College has appointed a new president, Daniel Lufkin, who is prioritizing the evolving needs of students amid a decline in enrollment. The college plans to sell or lease seven campus buildings to better align with current demands, while Lufkin aims to strengthen ties with local employers to address workforce gaps.