DRPA begins making reforms

The Delaware River Port Authority, beginning a round of reforms following widespread criticism of its business practices, voted Wednesday to end all economic development projects not related to its core mission.

In a meeting that lasted more than five hours, DRPA commissioners also voted to require regular audits, comply with open-meeting laws and ban no-bid contracts. Some of the most contentious issues were put off until a meeting next week.

Over the last 12 years, the DRPA has spent about $485 million on economic development projects. Big-ticket spending in 2009 included the President's House memorial near Independence Hall ($3.5 million), demolition of a state prison on a prime piece of Camden waterfront ($6 million) and $1.75 million to bring the Army-Navy football game to Philadelphia.

The bistate agency operates four Delaware River toll bridges and the PATCO commuter-rail line.