🚊 Train Bridge Collision | 🥁 Cville Christmas Parade | 🚗 Dtown Waives Parking Fees

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In Today’s Edition of Downingtown Local Pulse

☀️ Downingtown PA Weather

🚊 Train Bridge Collision collapses Iron Beam

🥁 Coatesville Christmas Parade Celebrates Global Traditions and Features New “Quiet Zones”

💰 Chester County Community Foundation Awards $45K

🚗 Downingtown Waives Parking Fees

🏡 Downingtown Real Estate

📆 Upcoming Local Events

🔎 Local Business Finder

Whitford Road Closed After Truck Hits Bridge, Iron Beam Collapses on Trailer

EXTON, PA — A leaf collection truck struck a railroad bridge in Exton, Chester County, on Tuesday afternoon, prompting an indefinite closure of the structure as authorities assess the damage.

The incident occurred around 1:30 p.m on South Whitford Road. While no injuries were reported, the crash caused visible damage to the bridge, as well as the iron safety beam which fell on the trailer of the vehicle.

Officials have not yet determined the extent of the damage or how long the bridge will remain closed. Investigators are still working to understand the circumstances that led to the crash.

Coatesville Christmas Parade Celebrates Global Traditions and Features New “Quiet Zones”

COATESVILLE, PA — The Coatesville Christmas Parade, Chester County’s largest hometown event, will take place on Dec. 7, 2024, along the Lincoln Highway. This year’s theme, “Winter Holidays Around the World,” highlights cultural diversity with over 160 entries, including floats, dance groups, and Mummers bands. Cleveland-Cliffs serves as the presenting sponsor and Grand Marshal, recognizing its contributions to the Coatesville community.

For the first time, Quiet Zones will be available for attendees sensitive to noise and lights. Parade-goers are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for local charities. The event includes competitions for the best floats, decorated vehicles, and performance groups, with prizes awarded to winners. As always, the parade concludes with Santa Claus riding a fire truck. Admission is free, and the festivities will stream live online.

Chester County Community Foundation Awards $45K to Local Nonprofits

WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County Community Foundation has granted $45,505 to 15 nonprofits in Chester County through its capacity-building program. Selected organizations, ranging from mental health providers to senior support groups, were chosen for their efforts to enhance community well-being. The grants focus on improving nonprofit capacity in areas such as leadership, partnerships, and fundraising. This initiative reflects CCCF’s commitment to empowering local organizations to serve vulnerable populations effectively. Applications for the next round of funding open in July 2025.

Downingtown Waives Parking Fees for Christmas Season

DOWNINGTOWN, PA — In a unanimous decision on November 13, 2024, the Downingtown Borough Council approved free parking in borough lots for the holiday season. From November 29 to December 26, residents and visitors can park without fees to support local businesses and enjoy Downingtown’s offerings. The initiative aims to boost foot traffic for shops and restaurants during a critical time of year. However, the borough reminds drivers to adhere to time limits, such as the two-hour maximum in some areas, to ensure fairness and availability for all.

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