Controversy Leads to Dramatic Policy Changes at DRPA

Commissioners with the Delaware River Port Authority spent several hours Wednesday dealing with more than 2 dozen measures aimed at restoring public confidence in the agency.

KYW's David Madden reports embattled CEO John Matheussen noted what he called a "firestorm of media coverage" that led to many of the widespread policy changes approved. (see previous story)

Among them, eliminating most perks, reviewing executive pay and enhancing the agency's public access. But something's been lost in all that.:

"The brush that has been painted on the DRPA and PATCO with regard to our operations certainly are not deserved by the employees that work here every day."

Four measures were tabled for a week, dealing with political influence and financial interests in contract awards. Also on hold, a proposal to reinstate commuter and senior discounts on the 4 authority bridges set to expire on September 1st.