Historic Bridge Transformation: What Lies Ahead for Route 462?

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT)

COLUMBIA, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has unveiled online plans for the extensive rehabilitation of the Route 462 Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge, a critical artery connecting York and Lancaster counties over the Susquehanna River. This ambitious project aims to address structural deficiencies while enhancing mobility and safety for both bicyclists and pedestrians.

Opened in 1930, the Columbia-Wrightsville Bridge, also recognized as the Veterans Memorial Bridge, is not only a vital transportation link but also a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Spanning 1.26 miles with 48 arches, this bridge is integral to the region’s infrastructure as part of PA Bike Route S, accommodating vehicular, pedestrian, and cycling traffic.

The proposed rehabilitation, jointly spearheaded by PennDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), encompasses a comprehensive overhaul. Key improvements include remediation of structural deficiencies that have emerged over time, enhancements to pedestrian and cyclist access to Columbia Borough’s Northwest River Trail and River Park, as well as Wrightsville Borough’s Mason-Dixon Trail and Riverfront Park. The project also plans the construction of a roundabout at Wrightsville Borough’s complex five-point intersection, involving Routes 462 and 624 with North and South 2nd Streets. A central median will be installed at the bridge’s eastern approach on Route 462, aiming to calm traffic. Furthermore, lighting improvements above the bridge deck are planned to ensure safety during the annual mayfly season.

The initiative, initially scheduled for construction in Spring 2024, faced a setback due to unforeseen structural deficiencies discovered during a routine inspection in June 2023. These findings prompted PennDOT to impose a 10-ton weight limit and initiate interim repairs, anticipated to conclude by Fall 2024. Although these repairs will not lift the weight restriction, they are essential to prevent a full closure until the comprehensive rehabilitation commences.

Significant revisions to the project’s scope have been necessitated by the bridge’s deteriorating condition, leading to a delay in the full rehabilitation plan. The updated project now requires additional engineering and environmental evaluations, pushing the major rehabilitation efforts to the 2027-2031 construction seasons, contingent on final approvals and funding. During this period, an expected three-year closure of the bridge is planned, necessitating detours via US 30 for vehicles, with transit services facilitating bike and pedestrian passage.

For those keen on engaging with this transformative project, PennDOT has organized an open house scheduled for September 17, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Columbia Market House, 15 S. Third St., Columbia, PA. This event offers a platform for public input and questions in an informal setting, without a formal presentation. Furthermore, Columbia Borough is supporting participation by offering free metered parking after noon on the day of the meeting.

To facilitate continuous public engagement, PennDOT encourages stakeholders to access detailed roadway plans and submit feedback through their online portal. The portal is accessible via the PennDOT District 8 website, under the Public Meetings section, by selecting the York County box and the SR 462 Columbia Wrightsville Bridge tile. The comment period remains open until October 17, 2024, at 11:59 PM.

Motorists and residents are urged to stay informed about traffic conditions related to the bridge’s rehabilitation by visiting the MyChesCo Traffic Center. This resource provides real-time updates essential for ensuring a smooth commute during the project’s progression.

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