Bridge Commission Swears in New Member
James D. Fattorini to Serve Three-Year Term

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Palmyra—A new purchasing portal on the Burlington County Bridge Commission’s website simplifies the process for vendors who wish to bid for Commission projects and is the latest example of the agency’s openness and transparency. In addition to advertisements for bids, requests for proposal, and requests for qualifications, the website will also contain full bid packages, which were previously available only by requesting those documents in person at the Commission’s administration building.

"Our website continues to grow, and in ways that serve the public with more information, easier access to documents they need, or tools to help find what they’re looking for,” said Chairman John Comegno.  He refers to the addition of financial information like budgets and audit reports and the Business and Developer Site Finder which helps users looking for land or building space in Burlington County.

“We are always open to better ways of doing things that improve our services to toll payers and taxpayers. This Purchasing Portal is our latest improvement,” added Comegno.

Freeholder Director Joseph Donnelly praised Chairman Comegno for his leadership, but he also credited the Bridge Commission for being a great follower:  “By adding this information to its website, the Commission is following the County’s example to be more transparent,” he said, referring to the new electronic comment form on the County’s website, the latest component of the County’s transparency plan.  “This initiative also simplifies the process for Commission vendors, makes purchasing documents more accessible, and is a fine example of the ‘Transparent Burlington County’ established by the Freeholders.”

The Bridge Commission’s purchasing portal is located at http://www.bcbridges.org/PublicInformation/Purchasing.aspx.  Visitors can view bid packages, RFP documents, or RFQ documents, but are now required to sign in. This allows the Commission to maintain a current list of potential bidders and ensure that all those who view the documents receive any addendums to the original bids, RFPs, or RFQs.

While it remains the responsibility of potential bidders to check the Commission’s website for any updates or addendums prior to bid openings, the new Purchasing Portal simplifies the process and makes information more easily accessible.

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of more than $15.9 million dollars and garnered more than $14.8 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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“The fiscal conservative in me can’t help but notice that this Commission has kept its tolls in check, while other authorities have continued to raise tolls,” said Donnelly, noting that tolls on the Commission’s two bridges have remained unchanged since 2000. 

“Even during the worst of the recent recession you have balanced your budget, paid off debt, and continued to look for creative ways that we could work together to reduce property taxes and bolster business and job growth,” Donnelly added.

He commended Comegno for his leadership.  A Moorestown resident, Comegno has served as Chairman since 2007, and today was sworn to this third term by Joseph Lavery, Esq.  Comegno also is founder and president of the Comegno Law Group, PC, of Moorestown, and is recognized nationally as a leading School Law practitioner.

Donnelly said that he was “confident that the Freeholder board and Commission will continue to identify taxpayer savings through shared services with towns and schools, and also continue to pursue economic development tools aimed at business development and job growth.

“Together, we developed a shared savings program that made green energy improvements and savings a more user-friendly investment for local entities across the County,” said Donnelly.  “The good news:  our work in this area is far from over.”

As 2013 gets underway, the County is also moving forward with a “Buy Local” campaign to encourage support of local business by resident consumers, and, in the process, generate more job opportunities, Donnelly noted. 

“At the end of the day we are talking about a wide range of initiatives that benefit all County residents and taxpayers.”

Serving since January 2007, Comegno was reappointed by the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders in December to serve a third term. Comegno’s appointment continues through October, 2015. 

Since coming on board in 2007, Comegno pledged to work with the Freeholders to make the Bridge Commission a model agency of openness, accountability, and transparency. 

His comprehensive reform campaign called “A New Era, A New Span” resulted in the implementation of checks and balances for Commission transactions and contractors’ work, an expanded website that makes more information easily accessible to the public, continuation of open and competitive procurement policies and contract awards.  Updated Commission bylaws and policies ensure that the Commission operates in an efficient, transparent, accountable and ethical manner.

A member of the NJ and PA bars and accepted to practice in jurisdictions across the country, Comegno is a cum laude graduate of Gettysburg College, and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the Wake Forest University School of Law.  He has extensive experience counseling public and independent schools on wide-ranging School Law issues, representing clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.  John is also a nationally recognized lecturer on School Law who regularly presents throughout the United States. During the current school year, John has or will lecture in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, New Hampshire, and Washington State. 

In addition to his service to the Burlington County Bridge Commission, Comegno is involved with the performing arts and youth athletics, serves as a board member for several local and national non-profit organizations, and teaches Catechism in his Church.

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of more than $15.9 million dollars and garnered more than $14.8 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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Burlco Economic Development Department Launches Network on “Linked In” Site
Local Businesses and Professionals Invited to Join Group

At its meeting today, Burlington County Bridge Commissioners announced their collaborative effort with The Burlington County Freeholders to foster economic growth in Burlington County by establishing a professional networking outlet for Burlington County businesses, organizations, and individuals. Through the newly created networking group at www.linkedin.com, members can share critical information and ideas and make important connections. 

“The network will serve as a virtual meeting place for businesses and professionals in Burlington County,” said Bridge Commission Chairman John Comegno.  “Although there will be news from the County’s Economic Development arm, the site will also provide group members with a place for discussions about how to grow the economy in our County.”

Freeholder-Director Bruce Garganio added, “This adds in no small way to the other steps we have taken in recent months to bolster economic growth and job opportunities.  Our Job Seekers webpage continues to be one of the most visited sites on the County’s website.  Meantime, more real estate brokers and land owners are populating the bridge commission’s site finder webpage, a tool which gives business that are looking to expand some solid information about available commercial and industrial properties throughout the County.

“Through LinkedIn, we’ll get some serious feedback from the business community-at-large.  That can only enhance our efforts to grow businesses and jobs,” Garganio added.  

LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network with more than 175 million members, allows professionals to connect with others with similar backgrounds, enlarge their professional networking circle, and establish new connections that may lead to new opportunities. The Burlington County Economic Development Network is one of many groups established on LinkedIn to help gather together individuals with a common goal, in this case, to foster economic growth in the County.

Through the Burlington County Economic Development Network, businesses can use the information, ideas and new connections to help them to become more competitive and agencies and organizations can learn how to change and develop programs and provide services that will help businesses to become more competitive in the County.

“Using an established professional networking site liked LinkedIn is a smart move, not only on behalf of the County and Commission for establishing it, but also for the hard-working residents of Burlington County, who can help contribute to the positive growth to our local economy,” said Commissioner Troy E. Singleton.

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of approximately $15.9 million dollars and more than $13.8 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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Palmyra—Burlington County Bridge Commissioners John Comegno, Jim Fattorini, and Troy Singleton voted today to adopt the Commission’s 2013 Annual Budget and Capital Budget Program, which was approved by the State of New Jersey, and includes no toll increase on its two landmark bridges. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ Division of Local Government Services made no changes to the Commission’s budget and approved the budget as submitted. 

“I’m pleased that our budget has received DCA approval and I’m proud to present a budget with a 0% increase over last year’s budget,” said Bridge Commission Chairman John Comegno. “This budget provides for aggressive bridge maintenance and direct property tax relief for our residents, all with no toll increase.”

Vice-Chairman James Fattorini added, “We say our bridges are the ‘best bargain around’—that’s a phrase we’ve used for the last twelve years.”

The Commission’s capital budget supports the Commission’s commitment to maintain the integrity and safety of its bridges, and includes the following:
• completion of the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge deck replacement
• replacement of the Riverside-Delanco Bridge deck,
• repairs to the Burlington-Bristol Bridge operating and machinery room
• safety enhancements to toll plaza and painting at both Commission bridges. 

“The Commission’s budget reflects an investment in our historically significant bridges, and will provide jobs for our citizens struggling to find work in these hard economic times,” said Commissioner Troy E. Singleton.

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of approximately $15.9 million dollars and more than $13.8 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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FOR RELEASE, 8/14/12

Bridge Commission Police Enforce Crackdown on Drunk Drivers as Part of Statewide Campaign

Palmyra—Law enforcement officers from the Burlington County Bridge Commission will be cracking down on drunk drivers as part of the summer 2012 “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign funded by a state grant program.  Beginning August 17 and running through September 3, Commission police will join local and state law enforcement officers conducting sobriety checkpoints and roving patrols, looking for motorists who may be driving while intoxicated.

A concentrated national effort, the campaign helps to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking and driving through high-visibility enforcement and public education tools, including posters, banners and mobile video display signs. Launched nationally in 1999, the program works to combat drunk driving during some of the busiest travel times of the year, including the Labor Day holiday period.

In 2010 alcohol-impaired fatalities accounted for 20 percent of New Jersey’s motor vehicle fatalities. As part of the initiative, the Division of Highway Traffic Safety provides grants to local law enforcement agencies throughout the state to run the two-week campaign. The Bridge Commission will use grant funds to cover overtime DUI patrols.

Law enforcement agencies participating in the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over 2012 crackdown offer the following advice:
• If you plan to drink, designate a driver, someone who will not drink alcohol, before going out.
• Take mass transit, a taxi or ask a sober friend to drive you home.
• Spend the night where the activity is held.
• Report impaired drivers to law enforcement.  In New Jersey, drivers may dial #77 to report a drunk or aggressive driver.
• Always buckle up, for every ride, regardless of your seating position in the vehicle.  It’s your best defense against an impaired driver.
• If you’re intoxicated and traveling on foot, the safest way to get home is to take a cab or have a sober friend or family member drive you to your doorstep.

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of more than $15.5 million dollars and garnered more than $13.5 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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Palmyra—For the twelfth consecutive year, Burlington County Bridge Commissioners announced that there would be no toll increase on its two toll bridges with the introduction of its 2013 budget. They also reaffirmed their commitment to an aggressive bridge maintenance program and pledged to continue economic development and tax-saving efforts that have already saved Burlington County taxpayers more than $15.5 million dollars.

“Twelve years with no toll increase—in any economy, that’s an achievement,” said Bridge Commission Chairman John Comegno.  “In this economy, it’s exceptional fiscal management.  There’s a good reason our customers call us the ‘best bargain around.’ ”

Vice-Chairman James Fattorini said, “I’m proud to introduce a flat budget that provides for improvements to our signature bridges and assistance to our County’s taxpayers.”

The Commission’s $42.6 million dollar capital budget supports the Commission’s commitment to maintain the integrity and safety of its bridges, and includes the following:
• completion of the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge deck replacement
• replacement of the Riverside-Delanco Bridge deck,
• repairs to the Burlington-Bristol Bridge operating and machinery room
• safety enhancements to toll plaza and painting at both Commission bridges. 

“These aggressive capital programs will not only keep our bridges in top condition and provide safe and efficient travel for our customers, but they will also provide jobs for our citizens struggling to find work,” added Commissioner Troy E. Singleton.

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of more than $15.5 million dollars and garnered more than $13.5 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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Palmyra, NJ— Using the well-known Nixle system, the Burlington County Bridge Commission will launch a new community information service that will enable customers of the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges to receive text or email message notifications of scheduled bridge openings and other traffic issues that might affect their commute.

"Imagine being able to adjust your schedule or your route according to a traffic delay or motor vehicle accident,” said Commission Chairman John Comegno. “Motorists travelling one of our landmark bridges will be able to do just that—and at no cost.”

Interested motorists who sign up for this program will receive traffic information on a real-time basis from Nixle. Messages will cover upcoming bridge openings, existing vehicular accidents or traffic issues, or planned construction work that may affect commuters who use the Tacony-Palmyra or Burlington-Bristol Bridges.

Because the bridges open “on demand” (upon vessels’ requests), advance notification isn’t always possible, but when adequate advance notice is provided, the Nixle system will notify registered users. Notification to the Commission varies greatly so the timetable for notifications via Nixle will vary accordingly. Notifications will come the same day, anywhere from several hours before the scheduled opening to minutes before.

The service is FREE of charge, both to the Bridge Commission and to the users (if the users’ cell phone carrier charges for text messages, users will incur that charge, but there is no “opt-in” or per-message charge imposed by the Bridge Commission).

Users can sign up at www.nixle.com or from the link provided on the Commission’s website, www.bcbridges.org.

Since April of last year, BCBC’s Police have notified the media by email in advance of bridge openings for the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges. This new community information service extends the communication directly to the general public. “Some people might think we’re crazy, instituting a new process that could potentially drive customers away from our bridges,” said Vice-Chairman James D. Fattorini, “but we believe we’re putting our toll payers first by offering this one-of-a-kind notification.” “Offering motorists no toll increase for the past ten years has saved them money. Now this notification system will save them time,” Commissioner Troy Singleton added. “These days, what hard-working citizen can’t use that?”

“Simply put, this system is the right thing to do,” said Comegno. “And it does what we’ve been focused on here at the Burlington County Bridge Commission — it puts our customers first.”

About Nixle:

Nixle, LLC, is a community information service that alerts the public to public safety issues and community events via web, e-mail, and cell phone at no cost. Its authenticated service connects municipal agencies and community organizations to residents in real time, delivering information to geographically targeted consumers over their cell phones (via text messages), through e-mails and through Web access.

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"Providing this assistance to one of our gateway towns not only beautifies a heavily travelled road," said John Comegno, Chairman of the Bridge Commission.  "It also lightens the burden on the municipality, which translates into tax savings for its residents."

Palmyra's comprehensive Market Street Gateway Improvement Project will extend from Broad Street to Souder Avenue, the road just before the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge. The total cost is estimated at $570,000; the cost of the roadway reconstruction, which the Commission will undertake, is estimated at $270,000.

Palmyra will replace sidewalks as needed, install 38 handicap ramps, and install period lighting like that on Broad Street from Market Street to Route 73 (as part of the previous “Streetscape Project” by the Commission).  The project will also include rehabilitation of the Ethel Hardy Playground located at the corner of Market and Madison Streets. The project is expected to begin April 1st and wrap up by July 30th.
                                                                                                         
“Partnering with the Burlington County Bridge Commission on our Market Street revitalization project allowed us to accomplish all of the needed streetscaping improvements while saving Palmyra taxpayer dollars,” stated Mayor Karen Scheffler.
Commissioner Troy Singleton noted the economic impact the project would have: “I am gratified that the Commission's continued bipartisan efforts towards enhancing shared services has led to job creation and a tax saving initiative for Palmyra.”
“Providing a safer and more enjoyable ride for the motoring public to our Tacony-Palmyra Bridge is something we’re proud as Commissioners to be able to do,” added Vice-Chairman James Fattorini.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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Bridge Commission Helps Four Burlco Towns Net Nearly $200,000 for Planning and Redevelopment Efforts

Palmyra, NJ – As a result of grant applications sponsored by the Burlington County Bridge Commission on behalf of area towns, four Burlco municipalities will receive $178,000 from Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC).  Burlington City, Mansfield Township, Palmyra Borough, and Mt. Laurel Township will receive funds from the DVRPC’s Transportation and Community Development Initiative (TCDI).

“This is yet another shared service between the Freeholders and the Bridge Commission that benefits our municipalities, bringing desperately needed dollars to tight town budgets,” Freeholder Director Bruce Garganio said.

“These grant awards are a win-win for Burlington County towns and their taypayers,” said Commission Chairman John Comegno. “Municipalities get funding for their projects, and because the Commission underwrites the cost of the grant applications, the funding comes at no cost to the municipalities.”

The TCDI grants provide support for local development and redevelopment efforts, and provide funding for municipalities to implement their local planning objectives: 

• Burlington City will receive $64,000 for a zoning update, which will allow for the City to develop a new zoning ordinance that matches the recommendations put forth in the new master plan.

• Mansfield Township was awarded $50,000 to be used to update the township’s Master Plan by developing a Circulation Plan Element.

• Palmyra Borough will use $32,000 to explore traffic calming measures to address heavy and fast-moving traffic along Broad Street (County Route 543), from the border of Riverton to New Jersey State Highway 73.

• Mt. Laurel Township will use $32,000 in TCDI funds to develop a new bikeway plan within the Township that will connect to the Rancocas Greenway.

Burlington City Mayor Jim Fazzone stated that, “Without these grant funds, the City of Burlington would have been unable to fund the amendments to our zoning ordinance to reflect our new Master Plan, making it more difficult to attract new businesses to the City and continue revitalizing  our downtown.”

Karen Scheffler, Palmyra Mayor, also expressed gratitude for the award and application assistance: “Thanks to the assistance from the Bridge Commission in providing the grantwriting services, and the grant from the DVRPC, Palmyra will now be able to examine new opportunities to improve our downtown and attract new business into the community.” 

Applications were prepared by Community Grants, Planning, and Housing (CGP&H), the East Windsor-based firm hired by the Commission that has garnered a total of $13,805,575 in grants for Burlington County municipalities, resulting in huge tax savings for those towns. With expertise in soliciting county, state, federal, and private sector grant and low-interest loan programs, CGP&H boasts an impressive 17:1 return on investment for Commission-sponsored grant applications.

“Whether it’s saving our tollpayers from a toll increase or bringing economic relief to financially strapped towns and their taxpayers, the Bridge Commission is determined to be a good neighbor,” said Comegno.

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of approximately $14 million dollars.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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“When we learned about the potential loss for already struggling Burlco municipalities, we scrambled to find a way to help,” Freeholder-Director Bruce Garganio added.  “This service, offered at no charge, stands to save our taxpayers millions of dollars.”

Under an amendment to the Fair Housing Act, the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has the authority to require municipalities to forfeit any trust funds which were deposited on or before July 17, 2008 and which are not encumbered by July 17, 2012.  DCA has indicated that municipalities must have Spending Plan approval from DCA and must have committed trust funds to implement approved activities. 

According to data posted on the DCA website, Burlco towns stand to lose $14,764,264 in affordable housing trust fund dollars. 
Funding commitments may include:
    • Executed developer agreements;
    • Executed contracts with providers or program administrators;
    • Rehabilitation Programs;
    • Affordability Assistance Programs;
    • Implemented affordable housing programs; or 
    • The purchase of sites for municipally sponsored construction.
 
This shared service initiative can help municipalities determine if they have trust fund dollars at risk, review and update their existing spending plan, draft a new spending plan, and identify appropriate cost-effective ways to commit their trust funds dollars.

Community Grants, Planning & Housing will provide the service, which is sponsored by the Bridge Commission and offered free to Burlco municipalities. CGP&H already has assisted municipalities in the County in obtaining over $14.9 Million in grant monies at no cost to the taxpayers. 
To learn more about their affordable housing trust fund dollars and ultimately avoid losing funds, municipalities should contact Dave Gerkens of CGP&H at 609-371-1937 ext. 23 or dave@cgph.net

“Towns have nothing to lose by inquiring, but they stand to lose plenty if they do nothing,”  Garganio added.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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Palmyra, NJ – At the Burlington County Bridge Commission’s first meeting of the new year, Chairman John Comegno unveiled the Commission’s “Safety in Numbers” report, which provided highlights of the Commission’s accomplishments over the past year.  He stressed that bridge safety, bridge maintenance and tax relief will continue to be the organization’s focus, with the goal of safe and affordable spans.

“Despite the economic challenges of 2011, we improved our landmark bridges, provided safe and efficient travel for our loyal customers, and gave property tax relief to the people of Burlington County,” said Comegno.  “All while remaining true to our core mission of maintaining safe bridges.”

Comegno’s “Safety in Numbers” report included the following figures for 2011:
• 14.1 million:  number of vehicles that crossed the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges
• $15.4 million dollars:  total amount saved Burlco taxpayers since 2002 on pooled-lease and pooled loan financing to benefit local governments and nonprofits
• $1.4 million dollars: amount saved by the County, Burlington City, Evesham, Maple Shade and Pemberton by refunding a $37.8 million dollar loan from 2002.
• $929,000:  total in small business loans written for Burlco businesses that resulted in 46 jobs.
• $618,000:  amount saved by the County and Delanco Sewerage Authority on the refunding of a $9.5 million pooled governmental lease financing
• $562,155:  amount of grants awarded to 11 Burlco municipalities (applications sponsored by Commission, so at no cost to towns)  — another $509,108 in grant applications still pending (for 9 Burlco towns)    
• $150,000:  amount saved by purchasing products from approved vendors on the state contract
• 4,000:  number of students who visited Palmyra Cove Nature Park
• 1,500:  number of motorists assisted by Commission Police each year
• 0.01% (one one-hundredth of one percent):  percentage of EZ-Pass violations ($2,400) out of $13.5 million dollars in revenue — a figure that’s unmatched in the industry
• 211:  number of tickets issued by Commission Police during the “Click it or ticket” initiative, a seat belt enforcement campaign of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration

“But of all these statistics, the number I’m most proud is zero,” Comegno added, “because that represents the toll increase on our bridges. 2011 was the 11th consecutive year for no toll increase at the Bridge Commission’s bridges.  As I’ve said before, we’re still the best bargain around.” 

Commissioner Troy E. Singleton added, “I’m proud to say we have hundreds of people employed as part of our aggressive capital plan for bridge maintenance, which currently includes 13 active projects and 15 projects in design.”  “And that’s on top of the 46 jobs that resulted from small business loans from our economic development department.”

And Vice-Chairman James Fattorini said he looks forward to 2012, when the Commission will expand on its accomplishments of 2011 and add exponentially to the assistance provided to residents in Burlington County:  “You can count of us being relentless in pursuing all the dollars we can for struggling Burlington County taxpayers.”

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of more than $15.5 million dollars and more than $13.5 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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FOR RELEASE 8/25/11

Burlco Bridge Commission: Smart Technology Kicks In With Earthquake: Bridges are Safe

Palmyra – Within minutes after this week’s 5.8 magnitude earthquake, the Burlington County Bridge Commission was able to assess the impact on its landmark bridges crossing from New Jersey to Pennsylvania, determining that the earthquake did not impact the safety or functionality of the bridges. Thanks to smart technology sensing and data collection equipment installed on the two Commission-owned bridges and monitored by the Commission Engineer of Record Pennoni Associates, engineers reviewing data from the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge and the Burlington-Bristol Bridge from remote locations were able to determine almost immediately that these bridges remained unaffected.

While buildings were being evacuated all along the East Coast in fear of structural failure, the Commission was able to immediately assure the public that their bridges were safe. Once the over-all safety and security of the bridges was confirmed, the Commission ordered Pennoni inspectors and engineers to the bridges to perform additional visual inspections.

“As of early Tuesday evening, we had boats in the water checking the piers of both bridges,” said Chairman John Comegno.  “Not because we suspected damage, but to err on the side of extreme caution—the visual inspection was strictly precautionary.  It was due diligence on the part of our engineers and ultimately the responsibility of me and my fellow Commissioners to ensure the public’s safety.” 

These emergency inspections are in addition to the regularly scheduled in-depth, hands-on inspections that were performed last summer and fall.  “That's one of the reasons we are not overly concerned,” said David S. Lowdermilk, PE, Pennoni Regional Vice President for Transportation.   “We know the bridges are in good shape.”

Data collectors on the Burlington-Bristol Bridge collect data from strain gauges which track the everyday stresses and strains on the bridge, including weather and effects of sun and wind.  Any unusual stress levels would trigger a recording of the event. Stress levels caused by the equivalent of a half a legal truck load would trigger a recording. The earthquake did not trigger the system to start recording.  “The foresight shown by the Commission in embracing this technology allowed us to immediately determine that there was no compromise to the safety and integrity of their long-span structures as a result of this earthquake,” Lowdermilk added.  “We were proud to assist the Commission in quickly assessing the results, allowing for speedy communication to the public that the bridges were safe.”

Vice-Chairman James Fattorini added, “The decision to integrate smart technology on these bridges was before my time on the Commission, but it speaks volumes to the organization’s leadership and commitment to its core mission of maintaining safe and efficient bridges.”

“This earthquake certainly highlighted the Commission’s emergency response capabilities with respect to our bridge structures,” said Commissioner Troy Singleton.  “The speed with which our staff responded to this event was nothing short of amazing.”

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of approximately $14 million dollars and more than $13 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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FOR RELEASE 7/12/11

Bridge Commission:  NO TOLL INCREASE on Tacony-Palmyra & Burlington-Bristol Bridges
Commission Introduces Fiscal Year 2012 Budget

Palmyra—For the eleventh consecutive year, Burlington County Bridge Commissioners announced that there would be no toll increase on its two toll bridges. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to an aggressive bridge maintenance program and pledged to continue its economic development and tax-saving efforts that have already saved Burlington County taxpayers more than $14 million dollars.

“The Commission is continuing to give our toll payers the financial break they need, now more than ever,” said Bridge Commission Chairman John Comegno.  “I’m proud to announce that once again, we’re not raising tolls—we remain the best bargain around.”

“We will continue to keep our bridges safe and provide direct property tax relief for our residents,” he added, crediting the Commission’s administration and staff for controlling costs and making sacrifices needed to produce a nearly flat budget.

Vice-Chairman James Fattorini said, “The fact that the Commission has held tolls stable since 2000 is a testament to the Commission’s sound financial planning, and doing so while continually improving its historically significant bridges without compromising its assistance to our County’s taxpayers—that’s almost unheard of in this economy.”

The Commission’s $31 million dollar capital budget supports the Commission’s commitment to maintain the integrity and safety of its bridges, and includes the following:
• complete replacement of the Riverside-Delanco Bridge deck,
• complete replacement of electrical powerhouse at the Burlington-Bristol Bridge lift span,
• security & communications upgrade to both Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges that will incorporate smart technology,
• rehabilitation of the Burlington-Bristol Bridge operator’s tower and mechanical building (which controls the bridge’s lift span),
• safety enhancements to toll plaza and painting at both Commission bridges. 

Commissioner Troy E. Singleton echoed the Chairman’s remarks, adding, “I’m not only proud to stand with my fellow Commissioners and announce another year of no toll increases, but am equally pleased that our aggressive capital programs will continue to provide jobs for our citizens struggling to find work.”

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of approximately $14 million dollars and more than $13 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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FOR RELEASE 5/10/2011

Bridge Improvements Total Nearly $20 Million
Bridge Commission Committed to Core Mission of Bridge Maintenance Without Raising Tolls

New Commissioner Fattorini Named Vice-Chair

Palmyra, NJ – Palmyra, NJ – The Burlington County Bridge Commission is investing nearly $20 million dollars this year in 15 maintenance projects to preserve its landmark Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges and other structures. Commissioners John Comegno, James Fattorini and Troy Singleton provided an update at the Commission’s meeting tonight on authorized construction projects that will incorporate smart technology, enhance security measures, and revitalize the Commission’s two movable spans.

“There’s nothing more important than the dollars we spend on our aggressive bridge maintenance program,” said Comegno. “My fellow Commissioners and I are committed to providing safe and affordable passage over our bridges, which comes from a proactive, carefully designed plan of bridge inspection, maintenance and renewal that is second to none. All with no toll increase.”

Authorized construction projects, totaling $19.6 million, include:

• Security and communications upgrades on the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges that will incorporate smart technology, allow for more advanced video and data communications between the two bridges, and provide highly sophisticated, three-dimensional models of the two spans from which engineers can monitor actual bridge conditions and behavior,
• Multiple painting projects on both the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges,
• Safety enhancements to toll plaza areas of Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, including reconfiguration of areas to improve traffic flow, prevent and lessen impact of traffic accidents,
• Replacement of the Riverside-Delanco bridge deck, including incorporation of smart technology (sensors will be embedded in the concrete deck to monitor moisture and salt penetration),
• Rehabilitation of the Burlington-Bristol Bridge operator’s tower and mechanical building, which controls the bridge’s lift span,
• Complete replacement of the Electrical Powerhouse at the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge, which provides power to the bridge’s mechanical lift span as well as the rest of the bridge’s electrical infrastructure,
• Repointing of masonry piers on Tacony-Palmyra Bridge.

“The added bonus to an excellent program of bridge maintenance is the 200 or so people who will be put to work as a result,” said Commissioner Troy E. Singleton. “I’m proud to be part of the organization that makes those jobs available to people struggling to find work.”

“I may be new to the Commission, but if there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s that the Commission is constantly improving its bridges and facilities…there’s an impressive schedule of bridge maintenance that’s not only followed but continually built upon,” remarked Commissioner Fattorini. “Last week I had an opportunity to tour the bridge facilities and I have to admit I was astounded at the level of organization and attention to detail that was evident from department to department throughout the Commission.”

Projects currently in design include the Pompeston Creek Bridge replacement, a new Commission maintenance facility in Burlington, a Traveler System for the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge and fenders that surround piers of the Tacony-Palmyra Bridge. Those fenders were damaged seven years ago and were the focus of a multi-year court battle with Lloyd’s of London, which ultimately resulted in a $10.9 million reimbursement to the Commission.

“This year’s capital program is $5 million more than last year’s program, which goes to show that even in a challenging economy we make decisions about bridge maintenance based on sound principles aimed at keeping our structures safe,” said Comegno. “Those dollars are an investment, not only in our historically significant bridges, but also in the loyal motoring public that travels our spans.”

New Commissioner Fattorini Named Vice-Chair

Burlington County Bridge Commissioners also elected James D. Fattorini to the position of Vice-Chairperson. Appointed April 13th by the Freeholders to a three- year term, Fattorini was sworn in at the Commission’s meeting held the next day.

Chairman Comegno applauded Fattorini’s willingness to take on this new role as well as his eagerness to learn: “Commissioner Fattorini has already shown a remarkable curiosity and interest in learning all he can in this new role of Commissioner. I know he’ll embrace this role of Vice-Chair with the same enthusiasm and commitment.”

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of approximately $14 million dollars and nearly $13 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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FOR RELEASE 4/14/11

Bridge Commission Swears in New Member
James D. Fattorini to Serve Three-Year Term

Palmyra, NJ – At the Burlington County Bridge Commission’s April 14^th meeting, James D. Fattorini was sworn in as its newest member.  Currently in private law practice in Moorestown, Fattorini was appointed on April 13^th to a three-year term by the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders.

Chairman John Comegno welcomed Fattorini:
 “Jim will be a great complement to our team and an asset to the Commission.  His commitment to making the community a better place will fit perfectly with his new role as Bridge Commissioner. I look forward to working with him.”  

In his own law practice since 1994, Fattorini primarily handles criminal defense cases but also provides representation in civil and criminal cases in Superior Court.  He currently serves as Public Defender in seven Burlington County towns and formerly held the position of Prosecutor in Riverside, Maple Shade, Palmyra, and Riverton.  Mr. Fattorini is also a member of both the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks of the USA and Knights of Columbus, community-service oriented organizations he has been involved with for more than 20 years.

“I appreciate the Freeholders’ confidence in appointing me to this position and will bring my best to the position of Bridge Commissioner,” said Mr. Fattorini.  “I’m impressed by the work of my fellow Commissioners to provide property tax relief to Burlington County taxpayers and I’m eager to be a part of that service to the community.  And of course I’m excited to learn more about how the Commission operates and maintains its bridges and facilities,” Fattorini added.

Appointed by the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders, Commissioners are responsible for general oversight of the Burlington County Bridge Commission.  Commissioners are involved in decision-making as it relates to governance of the agency. They also have oversight over all senior management of the Commission, general oversight over the implementation of appropriate management and financial controls, and maintaining procurement policies and procedures consistent with governing law. 

Troy Singleton, the Commission’s lone Democrat, said of Fattorini’s appointment:  "I would like to congratulate Commissioner Fattorini on his appointment and welcome him to the Commission. Although he has enormous shoes to fill with the departure of Commissioner Anderson, I am sure that he will adopt the same team approach to managing the affairs of the Commission."

“We have said that we are committed to do whatever we can to provide property tax relief to the people of Burlington County,” said Comegno, “and now we have a new member to join us in that mission.”  “And that’s all while remaining true to our core mission, providing safe and efficient travel for the loyal customers who use our bridges, which are still the best bargain around.”

The Burlington County Bridge Commission manages the Tacony-Palmyra and Burlington-Bristol Bridges, and through its economic development and improvement authority powers, assists Burlington County municipalities in economic development and community revitalization projects and extends pooled financing options to local governments and nonprofits in Burlington County. These initiatives have resulted in a savings of approximately $14 million dollars and nearly $13 million dollars in grant monies for municipalities.

For information, contact Liz Verna, APR, Director of Communications, (856) 829-1900, ext. 224, cell (856) 417- 4088

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