House Approves Kail Bill to Honor Local Community Leader

May 8, 2019

HARRISBURG – Legislation to honor the efforts of a late Beaver County community leader passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives today, said Rep. Josh Kail (R-Beaver/Washington), author of the legislation.

House Bill 1281 would officially designate the Interstate 376 bridge over the Ohio River in Vanport Township, Beaver County, as the Richard L. Shaw Memorial Bridge.

Shaw, who passed away Dec. 29, 2018, was a World War II veteran and a leading force in the designation of Route 60 as Interstate 376, which sparked significant economic development in Beaver County.

“Mr. Shaw played such an instrumental role in preparing our local infrastructure, paving the way for the Shell petrochemical facility,” Kail said. “It is only fitting to have the bridge overlooking the plant serve as a lasting reminder and tribute to his work.”

Shaw also served as a board of directors’ member for both the Beaver County Corporation for Economic Development and the New Brighton Area School Board. He donated his time to the Brighton Center for Youth, the United Way of Beaver County, the Salvation Army, the Allegheny County Airport Authority, the American Red Cross, the Boy Scouts of America and many other civic and economic organizations.

“Mr. Shaw dedicated over sixty years of his life to supporting and expanding the local business and civic communities and his legacy is one of genuine care, commitment and humble generosity,” Kail said. “By dedicating this bridge in his honor, Mr. Shaw will be remembered by our community each time they pass through the area.”

House Bill 1281 now moves to the Senate for consideration. If signed into law, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation will be responsible for posting signs that note the designation.

Representative Joshua Kail
15th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abbey Haslam
717.260.6222
ahaslam@pahousegop.com
RepKail.com / Facebook.com/RepKail