PennDOT asks public to weigh in on future Wayne County bridge replacement
The bridge on Sherman Road spanning Sherman Creek in Scott Township, built in 2014, is due for replacement. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) invites the public to review the intended plan and offer comments on the project and proposed detour between August 9 and August 23.
"The purpose of the project is to provide a sustainable crossing over Branch Sherman Creek that provides a two-lane bridge, addresses the structural deficiencies, and provides continued access to local residents, businesses, and emergency services," states PennDOT.
The project will replace the bridge's existing corrugated plastic pipes with a precast reinforced concrete box culvert. "This alternative is wider than the existing structure in order to reduce the flow and velocity through the structure and eliminate concern for future scour at the bridge," states PennDOT. "The proposed structure will provide a more uniform stream grade for fish mitigation."
Planned work also includes pavement replacement, rock scour protection, guide rail updates and drainage improvement.
When all is said and done, the new bridge will provide two, 9-foot lanes with 2-foot shoulders to either side. The total span will be 22 feet.
PennDOT looks to wrap up the design phase and bid the project by February 2023. Construction is planned to start in the spring of 2024. It will last an estimated three to four months. While work is underway, Sherman Road will be closed to traffic with a 4.7-mile detour along Mountain Road and Criddle Road in place for the duration.
The bridge sees around 184 vehicles drive across it each day, according to 2020 statistics. It is projected to see approximately 255 vehicles per day by 2035.
Those interested in commenting on the project can print a comment from from PennDOT.gov, or pick one up from the Scott Center School House, located at 913 Fairmount Road in Starrucca.
Full details of the plan are available online.
This article originally appeared on Tri-County Independent: PennDOT seeks public input on Wayne County bridge replacement
