Dauphin News

The Senate has approved legislation to name a new bridge in honor of the late Sen. David J. Arnold Jr., according to Sen. Chris Gebhard (R-48), who authored the legislative language making the designation possible.

Senate Bill 1144, amended to include Gebhard’s provision, would designate the newly constructed bridge on State Route 72 over Swatara Creek in Swatara Township as the Sen. David J. Arnold Jr. Memorial Bridge in recognition of his years of public service to the commonwealth, Lebanon County, and his local community.

"While he didn’t have the opportunity to serve as our state senator very long before he lost his life, Dave was the embodiment of a dedicated public servant. For more than 15 years while serving as district attorney and senator, he was a leader in doing what’s right for his community," Gebhard said. "I hope everyone who uses the bridge is reminded of his commitment to helping others and his service to our community."

Before being elected to the Senate in 2019, Arnold served as district attorney for Lebanon County for 14 years. As district attorney, he advocated for victims and justice throughout Pennsylvania. Arnold was a member of former Gov. Tom Corbett’s elder abuse task force and served as president of the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association.

While Arnold served as a member of the Pennsylvania Senate, he was dedicated to advancing causes to protect the commonwealth’s children. His noteworthy legislation increased penalties on those convicted of possession of child sexual abuse materials and established a task force to combat the crime.

Gebhard’s office, in conjunction with PennDOT, plans to host a ceremony honoring Arnold’s life as a public servant once the bridge is completed this fall.

In 2021, Arnold passed away after battling brain cancer at 49 years old.

Senate Bill 1144, which already passed the House, now moves on to the governor for consideration.

CONTACT: Alex Gamble