More than 100 midstate bridges to be replaced through state program
(Harrisburg) — A unique collection of contractors are working together to replace more than 100 bridges in the midstate, as part of a pioneering public-private partnership.
The work is already starting on bridges Schuylkill and Union counties, though it really picks up across the midstate next spring and summer.
The program – the Rapid Bridge Replacement Program – is designed to get new bridges in place quickly where designs are relatively straightforward.
The state is paying a group of contractors about $1.6 million per bridge, compared to the estimated $2 million-plus it would cost through the usual process.
State Transportation Secretary Leslie Richards says she’s confident the savings will continue.
“We’re going to have a 25-year guarantee on every single bridge, and they’re going to last many years after that as well. Which means we don’t have to go in with repeat patching and repeat band-aid issues to fix the bridges,” says Richards.
The private group of contractors is responsible for maintenance for the first 25 years as part of the deal.
Richards says because of the quick turnaround times, workers will benefit too.
“Northeast Prestressed will be producing more than 2,000 beams for our program. That means more jobs and fewer seasonal layoffs,” she adds.
In total, 558 bridges statewide will be replaced under the program.
Most will be on state roads in rural areas, not on interstates or over large rivers.
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