Work on a temporary bridge in West Newton is expected to start in September as PennDOT embarks on a multimillion-dollar project to renovate the historic existing span.
First will be construction of the abutments and piers, followed by the launching of the temporary bridge in December, said Andrew Stacy, PennDOT community relations coordinator.
Bids for the project were opened this month, and the apparent low bidder at $25.4 million is Joseph B. Fay Co., according to PennDOT.
The 119-year-old bridge over the Youghiogheny River is scheduled for renovation after being listed in poor condition in 2022. Work is expected to be finished in 2028.
According to PennDOT, the bridge, built in 1907, carries about 6,550 vehicles daily. It is crossed about 100 times a day by pedestrians and bicyclists.
The 500-foot temporary bridge will allow traffic on Route 136 to cross the river while the existing bridge is closed, avoiding a lengthy detour. It is projected to open in spring 2027.
The temporary bridge will be built and “pushed,” officials have said, in 10-foot sections across the river over several months.
Once it’s done, the focus will turn to the existing Parker through truss span, where there will be extensive steel and abutment repairs, deck and lighting replacement and road reconstruction, according to the bid. It’ll also get a fresh coat of paint.
The temporary bridge will be removed after the renovation is done. The Great Allegheny Passage will not be affected by the work.
The Federal Highway Administration provided $17 million for the project. PennDOT will foot the remainder of the bill.
