Yaw: Interstate 180 Corridor Designated as Kenneth C. Larson Jr. Memorial Highway

WILLIAMSPORT - A sign unveiling ceremony held recently in Williamsport officially designated a portion of Interstate 180 in Lycoming County as the Kenneth C. Larson, Jr. Memorial Highway, according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23). Yaw sponsored legislation to rename the highway in honor of the late veteran and engineer's decades of service to Pennsylvania's regional development and transportation infrastructure.

"Ken Larson was an accomplished engineer and a visionary whose leadership helped shape the very roads we travel on today," Yaw said. "His legacy of innovation, mentorship and public service deserves to be remembered by all who benefit from the work he dedicated his life to."

A graduate of Bucknell University and a U.S. Navy Reserve veteran, Larson began his public career at the former Department of Forests and Waters before moving into leadership roles within the Department of Highways and later PennDOT. In 1966, he became the youngest appointed district engineer, overseeing major construction and maintenance projects across multiple counties.

Larson played a key role in the development of critical transportation corridors, including portions of U.S. Route 15 and Interstate 80, and helped modernize the state's design processes through early adoption of computer-aided drafting. After his public service, he co-founded what would become Larson Design Group, a nationally recognized engineering firm headquartered in Lycoming County.

"So many have spoken about Ken as a leader and engineer, but Ken was a family man through and through," said Ashley Larson, granddaughter of Ken Larson. "He never missed a game, dance recital or in my case a theater performance. We're incredibly proud of his legacy and very thankful for this wonderful recognition in his honor."

In addition to his infrastructure achievements, Larson was known for his commitment to mentoring young engineers, supporting local initiatives and creating opportunities to retain skilled professionals in the region.

For more state-related news and information, constituents can visit Senator Yaw's website at https://www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and X @SenatorGeneYaw.

CONTACT
Elizabeth Weitzel
717-787-3280