Preserving History: PennDOT honored for cultural safeguarding

​History is an important part of Philadelphia — from the signing of the Declaration of Independence to the buildings dating to the 17th century. This year, PennDOT's District 6 office — serving the southeastern part of the state — was honored several times for its commitment to preserving the rich history of the region.

Over the summer, PennDOT received two Preservation Alliance Grand Jury Awards for the rehabilitation of the historic Walnut Lane Bridge over the Wissahickon Creek and the Adams Avenue Bridge over the Tacony Creek in Philadelphia. The contractors and designers for the projects joined PennDOT at the awards ceremony in June.

The American Cultural Resources Association (ACRA) industry award in the public sector went to PennDOT for its public outreach efforts regarding archeological discoveries​ made during the Interstate 95 corridor reconstruction. To date, 10 prehistoric sites and more than a million artifacts have been identified by the project team, which is in the process of analyzing the items ranging from the late 18th century through the early 20th century, including drinking glasses, figurines, and various building foundations.

In October, the Walnut Lane Bridge was recognized again from Preservation Pennsylvania by receiving the Ralph Modjeski Award for Excellence In Transportation Design, Preservation and Archaeology. Governor Tom Wolf commended the department on its good work, saying "they're an embodiment of everything the Ralph Modjeski award symbolizes." Governor Wolf also noted that District 6 stood as a pillar of exemplary public service while preserving our prized bridges in the state.​​