Tragedy to tourism

    Officials in northwestern Pennsylvania say they hope a new observation deck and walkway under construction at a historic railroad bridge toppled by a tornado 7 1/2 years ago will lure visitors to the area again.

    The AP reports that the deck and walkway are being built atop six of the support towers left standing when the Kinzua Viaduct came crashing to earth on July 21, 2003.

    Visitors will be able to look out over the Kinzua Gorge in McKean County at three more viaduct towers still standing. They can also peer through a window in the deck floor at the remains of the bridge scattered up to 300 feet below.

    Officials hope to have the skywalk and observation deck open by fall, and they hope to add a visitors center eventually.

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