PennDOT to Launch Major Bridge Replacement Project in East Pikeland Township; Travel Delays Expected

road workImage via Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

EAST PIKELAND TOWNSHIP, PA —The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has confirmed the commencement of a significant infrastructure project set to replace the aging bridge that carries Merlin Road over Pigeon Run in East Pikeland Township, Chester County. The construction work is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, January 2, 2024.

The project, which will incur an around-the-clock closure of Merlin Road between Pikeland Road and Coldstream Road in East Pikeland and Charlestown townships, is expected to last until Sunday, April 14, 2024. Motorists will be rerouted via Coldstream Road, Charlestown Road, Church Road, and Pikeland Road. Local access for residents and businesses in the affected areas will be maintained throughout the construction period.

Motorists are advised to allow for additional travel time when navigating through or near the construction zones due to anticipated delays and backups. PennDOT notes that all scheduled activities are dependent on weather conditions, and the timeline could be adjusted accordingly.

The project, undertaken by Lobar Site Development Corporation of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, will involve replacing the existing 24-foot-wide, 16-foot-long steel I-beam structure with a concrete box beam bridge. The new structure will measure 27 feet and 6.5 inches in width and 18 feet in length, accommodating 10-foot-wide travel lanes and 2-foot-wide shoulders to enhance traffic safety. Additional improvements include new signage, roadway design enhancements through pavement markings, milling and resurfacing, drainage upgrades, and guiderail replacements.

The current bridge, constructed in 1908 and reconstructed in 1950, is in poor condition exhibiting severe corrosion, pitting, and rust. It currently caters to an average of 1,923 vehicles per day.

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The project, costing $962,774, is entirely financed by state funds. The entire project is expected to be completed by fall 2024.

Drivers can check current road conditions by visiting the MyChesCo Traffic Center. Stay updated on the latest news and information from MyChesCo with our free newsletter. Follow MyChesCo on Twitter at twitter.com/MyChesCo and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/MyChesCo.

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