Lower Bucks Today

WASHINGTON, DC - Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) announced that his bipartisan bill with Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) to rename the Washington Crossing Post Office as the “Susan C. Barnhart Post Office” has passed the House of Representatives.

Susan Barnhart was one of seven victims who lost their lives in a flash flood on Route 532/Washington Crossing Road in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, on July 15th, 2023. An employee of the Washington Crossing Post Office and resident of Titusville, New Jersey, Barnhart was well-regarded by communities in both Bucks and Mercer counties.

“I am thrilled that the House has passed my bipartisan bill to rename the Washington Crossing Post Office the Susan C. Barnhart Post Office. Last July, our community experienced a devastating tragedy when a violent flash flood claimed the lives of seven innocent people. Among those we lost that fateful day was the extraordinary Susan Barnhart. Though she lived across the river, Susan spent many years serving our community and was cherished by all. As a model citizen, dedicated public servant, and a beacon of warmth and kindness, Susan was a positive and joyful presence that customers and colleagues looked forward to seeing every day. Her loss, along with that of the other victims, has left an unimaginable void in our community, but through this dedication, her spirit and legacy will continue to inspire us all,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1). “I thank Congresswoman Watson Coleman and my colleagues in the House for joining me to honor Susan.”

“Susan Barnhart was a beloved member of her community, cherished by her friends, family, and loyal pups - Bo, Buster, and Koda,” said Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). “Renaming the Washington Crossing Post Office in her honor is a fitting tribute to a model citizen beloved in both Mercer and Bucks counties. I am grateful to Rep. Fitzpatrick for his partnership on this legislation.”

“This is not only a memorial of Susan’s death but a fond remembrance of her boundless passion and energy for life,” said Susan’s sister Lynda Barnhart. “Susan’s joy was helping others always with a warm smile; she left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was devoted to her work at the Post Office and genuinely cared for her customers and co-workers—it was never just a job to her; she consistently went above and beyond to help others. Still almost a year later people are sharing stories with us about how they would visit the Post Office just to experience her smile and service. Susie made everyone she encountered feel special and brightened their days—this dedication perfectly honors her memory and spirit.”

Watch Congressman Fitzpatrick’s Floor Speech in support of the legislation here.

Read the full text of the bill here.