Revised Pennock Bridge Update
PennDOT closed the bridge due to structural defects with the abutment walls and decking. New London Township (NLT) commenced internal discussions about assuming responsibility for the bridge from PennDOT and replacing the failing structure. PennDOT responded favorably to the proposal, although the process of transferring control took an extended period.
Once the structure had been signed over, with an agreement on reimbursement for costs related to designing, permitting, constructing, and installing a new structure, NLT began the project. Having successfully partnered with Contech CONSPAN previously using their precast arch structures, NLT initially planned a similar structure for Pennock Bridge Road.
The goals of the Township’s turnback project include:
Maintaining a 2-lane bridge.
Straightening the curve in Pennock Bridge Road as it moves through the bridge.
Improving flood flow capacity to minimize upstream flooding.
A field meeting with CONSPAN representatives revealed limitations of the precast arch structure in achieving these objectives. This resulted in the selection of a Rolled Girder/Concrete Decking structure that meets the goals and provides flexibility and ease of installation not found in the precast structure.
Moreover, the Rolled Girder structure is available under the COSTARS program, which reduces both cost and time needed for bidding and installation.
NLT has also initiated environmental and engineering studies necessary to apply for General Permit BWM-GP-11 for Maintenance, Testing, Repair, Rehabilitation, or Replacement of Water obstructions and Encroachments. These studies include flow calculations, wetland delineations, surveying, hydraulic modeling, geotechnical analysis, and scour analysis. However, the bidding process for structures in the White Clay Creek watershed is complex due to the stream’s designation as a “Wild and Scenic Watershed”.
After PADEP acknowledges the use of the GP-11 permit, approvals must be sought from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the National Park Service. Once all permits are obtained, the Township will begin procurement and schedule the installation of the new structure.
If everything proceeds as planned, this process may be completed by the end of the year. However, should any delays occur, and if it proves infeasible to commence installation during early autumn, the more likely timeline would be obtaining permits in early autumn, finalizing structural design and procuring components in winter, and performing the installation in spring.
Finally, PennDOT has committed to reimbursing the Township for any costs related to designing, permitting, constructing, and installing a new. There is no cost to New London Township for the bridge replacement.