EPHRATA, Pa. (WHTM) -
It took Bruce Clark about 25 minutes to arrive at the state police barracks in Lancaster, and concerns over that travel time is what brought him there.
"I came here today because I was afraid we would be losing coverage of our area," Clark said.
Clark is from Earl Township, and like others who attended a public hearing Wednesday he is worried about losing the state police barracks closest to his home. The Ephrata barracks is scheduled to close by August 17.
State police officials explained that due to a high number of trooper vacancies, the decision to close the station was both a logistical and financial one. They added that along with position cuts, Ephrata's coverage area was recently downsized.
"You'll notice that there are only three townships and half a township that are currently covered by that station," Lt. Col. George Bivens said while pinpointing highlighted portions of a map.
Residents argued they still deserve a state police presence. In response, police said they'll have it, and it could even increase because of a reduction in clerical work.
"Those people who were responsible for the administrative duties will now be able to go on the road and do the kind of things your asking for," State Police Commissioner Frank Noonan said.
As a whole, what that crowd was asking for was some assurance; that despite losing the Ephrata station their communities would not be left out in the cold. Assurance is what Bruce Clark got.
"I know I can call on them for help," he said.
