Dauphin News

Senator Chris Gebhard has announced a public ceremony to honor the late Senator David J. Arnold Jr. by naming a new bridge in Lebanon County after him. The event is scheduled for January 29 at 2 p.m., located at 2309 PA-72, Jonestown.

The bridge, situated on State Route 72 over Swatara Creek in Swatara Township, will be named the Sen. David J. Arnold Jr. Memorial Bridge. This designation was made possible through Act 63 of 2024, which included a provision authored by Gebhard and received unanimous support.

"Sen. Arnold made an indelible mark on our community. His legacy should be remembered and serve as an inspiration for us all," said Gebhard. He added that Arnold's contributions had helped make Lebanon County safer and better.

Arnold served as district attorney for Lebanon County for 14 years before being elected to the Senate in 2019. During his tenure as district attorney, he was known for advocating victims' rights and justice across Pennsylvania. He also participated in former Governor Tom Corbett’s elder abuse task force and led the Pennsylvania District Attorneys Association.

As a state senator, Arnold focused on protecting children within the commonwealth, notably pushing legislation that increased penalties for those convicted of possessing child sexual abuse materials and establishing a task force to combat such crimes.

Arnold passed away in 2021 after battling brain cancer at the age of 49.

For further information about the ceremony, contact Alex Gamble.