The early air was alive with promise, the crisp cleanness of new found hope
While endless trucks and men toiled, we learned patience, we learned to cope

We brought you from our inner selves, no two of us imagining quite the same
On the river bank peering from the shadows, we knew from whence you came

Never has a people wanted more, from steel and stone then we on this fine day
Our hearts pound with excitement as you conquer the river and lead the way

Are you a gleaming gateway to Owego? Or the shortest route to take us home?
A heartening view to pristine beauty? Or a place where animals used to roam? 
 
Are you here you save our village? Will you bring our loved ones near?
Will the tourists flock to see you? Or can you dry a young child's tear?

You've been my long crutch, my closest friend, I've blamed you for my sorrow.
But now all is done, our goal's been reached and alone we must face tomorrow

Now as we open your gate, it will be to our future, we have no place left to
hide
Soon we take you as our own, moving proudly joining hands, standing side by
side

For we realize that your splendor and strength, gives us the courage to move
on 
That you were never our destination but instead a guidepost for what lies
beyond