June 30th, 2022 by WCBC Radio

The CSX West Side bridges as well as the economic development strategy of the city were topics  addressed by six candidates running for a seat on Cumberland’s city council- all taking part in a forum sponsored by the Allegany County Chamber of Commerce. Two council seats are up for election with the primary slated for July 19^th. The subject of the three bridges out of commission on the city’s West Side has been a hot topic for several years now and progress toward those spans being re-opened has been dragging. Councilman Joe George said he shares the frustration of the citizens for the apparent lack of progress- but there has been some movement- but it is ot for a lack of effort on the city’s part…                      

Candidate Mary Conlon said one of her chief concerns during this entire bridge ordeal has been a lack of information provided to those West Side residents directly impacted by the closures…

Candidate Brett Bean offered a light hearted take on the CSX bridge situation…

 

Another  question focused on whether the candidates are satisfied with the performance of the city is attracting business and boosting the economy. Incumbent Rock Cioni pointed to any number of key projects currently in various stages of development that give him reason for optimism…

Some of the other candidates were more frustrated than hopeful. Candidate James Furstenberg…

Candidate William Patch echoed those sentiments…