by KYW's vice president and general manager David Yadgaroff

In case you haven't heard, a pair of upstate Pennsylvania US congressmen have turned to Philly-bashing in an attempt to scuttle proposed tolls on Interstate 80 (see related news stories).

That vitally needed money would help provide a dedicated funding source for SEPTA and other transit agencies around the state. But it would also provide money to fix Pennsylvania's ancient and tired highways and bridges.

In light of the recent tragedy in Minneapolis, it's crucial for Pennsylvania to do whatever is needed to assure the public that bridges and roadways are safe and that the next bridge collapse isn't close to home.

But two congressmen from the northern tier of the state have been trying to kill the process. They've been telling their constituents that Harrisburg is picking their pockets to fund transit for Philadelphians who can't seem to manage their own affairs. 
 
There is a real danger that they could succeed.

With the Minneapolis victims fresh in everyone's mind, it's imperative that these misguided lawmakers immediately end the political posturing and get behind the tolls -- which incidentally, would not affect local I-80 commuters.

It could well be a matter of life or death.

To submit a comment or reply to this editorial, send an e-mail to yadgaroff@KYW.com.