Project
Description
This project invovles the complete replacement of the existing nine-span
structure carrying Dekalb Street (Route 202) over the Norfolk-Southern
Railroad in Bridgeport Borough, Montgomery County. The existing bridge
was built by the Reading Company in 1927 to eliminate an at-grade crossing
between the Railroad and Dekalb Street. The existing bridge was owned
and maintained by the Reading Railroad Company until 1996, when ownership
responsibilities were transferred to PennDOT.The new superstructure
will be a five-span continuous steel I-beam bridge with a composite
reinforced cement concrete bridge deck. The new substructure will include
two reinforced concrete cantilever abutments with four reinforced concrete
piers. Four retaining walls will replace the existing walls on the bridge
approaches. The new structure will carry two travel lanes in each direction
with a curb-to-curb width of 46'-0". Sidewalks will be installed
on both sides of the structure with a wider sidewalk on the west (up-river)
side to accomodate the future Chester Valley Trail extension. Lighting
consistent with Bridgeport Borough's streetscape project will be installed
as part of this project. There is minor approach roadway widening north
of the structure between Second and Front Streets. The traffic signals
at the intersections of Dekalb & Fourth Streets and Dekalb &
Front Streets will be replaced as part of this project.
Why Rebuild the Bridge?
Due to the deteriorated condition of the existing structure, a complete
superstructure and substructure replacement is necessary. The existing
bridge has a sufficiency rating of 3 out of 100, which is the lowest
in the region. The substructure is rated "critical," and the
superstructure and deck are each rated "poor."
What Roads Will This Affect?
Dekalb Street will be closed to all traffic between Fourth and Second
Streets in Bridgeport Borough during construction. The posted detour
route will utilize roads in Bridgeport, King of Prussia, and Norristown.
Note that Second and Front Streets in Bridgeport will remain open during
construction, providing access to Dekalb Street north of of the closure. |
