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Our opinion: Riverfront plans are exciting

Warren residents have been hearing about improvements to the Allegheny Riverfront for the past couple of years. Talking about the project whets the appetite, but we think there will be more excitement for the future of the Allegheny Riverfront in Warren after the first phase of work begins in 2027. The boat launch, which will include space for approximately eight boat trailers, pedestrian parking, a floating dock and an ADA-accessible launch, is the first in a series of projects that will reshape the city’s relationship to the Allegheny River. The larger master plan includes a ...

Our opinion: School phone policy about common sense

We’re glad to see the county Board of Education has passed a new cell phone policy that limits the devices’ use during school hours. Students in kindergarten through eighth grade would not be permitted to have cell phones out or accessible during the school day. High school students in grades nine through 12 would have more flexibility, with limited exceptions for legitimate educational or other approved needs. Board member Misty Moore questioned how the district would ensure teachers consistently enforce the policy. "I still feel that there is a lot of gray area," Moore said, ...

Our opinion: Don’t jump to conclusions on data centers

We do not expect the furor about data centers to die down. What we can say about proposals to build data centers must be similar, as a matter of principle, to what we say about any development: If or when it is done, there are right ways to do it, transparent ways that address the concerns of neighbors and place the appropriate guide rails and limitations on development. The concerns with the use of non-disclosure agreements likewise apply to other developments in other fields. We hope public officials take heed of these concerns and can work on adhering more closely to the spirit of ...

River plans can’t forget the fishermen

I’ve wondered for a long time about the difficulties of fishing from the bank in Warren County, compared to using a boat in the river. The Allegheny River is surely one of the best rivers in Pennsylvania for such a challenging sport. I would like to say here, I’m not writing to ...

Readers' Speak

DEP takes proper step Dear Editor, In a recent article in this paper, new rules for finding and repairing gas leaks in new and existing wells and infrastructure, along with ending venting and flaring of methane were recommended by the Department of Environmental Protection and Gov. Josh Shapiro. I strongly support these being implemented as quickly as possible, because of the health risks methane presents to the environment and the public. Methane is the most powerful driver of climate change, as well as a contributor to cases of asthma, developmental issues, cancer, etc. 1.2 ...

Our opinion: Plenty of positives in riverfront plans

There appears to be some momentum growing for the city’s riverfront. Last week, a proposed master plan envisioned a sweeping transformation of the area between the Hickory Street Bridge and Conewango Creek, with expanded recreational opportunities, improved access to the Allegheny River, new gathering spaces and connections to downtown. City Mayor Dave Wortman during the event Sept. 10 said the project grew out of the city's comprehensive planning process, which identified development of the riverfront as a high priority. Council adopted the comprehensive plan in 2023. "This is a ...