The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation is asking for the public's feedback on the plans to replace a bridge built more than 100 years ago in Mercer County.

PennDOT is looking to replace the Old Mercer Road bridge built in 1922 over Neshannock Creek in East Lackawannock Township, Mercer County, between the intersection with Route 19 and Courtney

The project includes replacing the existing single-lane metal truss bridge with a two-lane concrete bridge. The planned update would include realigning the roadway and new bridge to improve the turning at both ends of the bridge, updated guide rail, and signage.

Work is planned to happen in 2026.

An anticipated 5-month detour will be needed during construction and require drivers to go 7-miles around the closure, using Route 19, Butler Street (Route 2008), Route 258 and Courtney Road.

Approximately 400 vehicles a day use the bridge, and is classified as in poor condition. The bridge has a posted 9-ton/13-ton combination weight limit and a 14-foot, 5-inch vertical clearance restriction. Approximately 400 vehicles a day use the bridge, on average.

The public has until December 19 to comment on the plan, and can do so by clicking here or by calling 814-678-7057.

The plans for the Old Mercer Road Bridge Replacement digital plans for the new bridge, presentation, and an online comment form. It will be open until December 19, 2024 and can be accessed by visiting the PennDOT District 1 website, www.penndot.pa.gov/District1 under the View District 1 Projects link.

Those unable to access the information online may give feedback by contacting PennDOT Project Manager Mark A. Nicholson at [email protected] or 814-678-7057.

The estimated construction cost is between $2.5 to $3.5 million, using a combination of
federal, state, and local funds.