New Lewiston bridge to require traffic detour
What: The Lewiston Road bridge over Brush Creek needs to be replaced, which will require the state to close that section of the road for three months next summer.
Why the bridge has to be replaced: It was built in 1956. An August 2002 inspection showed that it is in poor condition and should be replaced rather than repaired.
Timeline: The state began purchasing some property near the bridge in April. Construction should begin in April 2006 and take about a year. The road is set to be closed for 90 days next summer, while school is out and there is less traffic.
Why the road has to be closed: It's cheaper and more environmentally friendly. Building a temporary bridge next to the existing bridge would increase the environmental impacts to Brush Creek and Lake Higgins and would cost twice as much.
How the work will impact traffic: A 2002 traffic count showed that 2,600 vehicles drive over the Lewiston Road bridge each day.
Detour: To re-route traffic, a 4.6-mile detour is scheduled and uses Jessup Grove, Horsepen Creek, Carlson Dairy, Pleasant Ridge and Lewiston roads.
Cost: $1.5 million
Information: Notices were mailed out to homeowners on Lewiston Road. There will be no meeting on the project, but a information line at (888) 521-4455 has been established. The state is planning to post message boards on either side of the bridge in early August, telling drivers to call the number for more information. Comments and questions can be sent to the consultant handling the project for the state at eworkman@rkkengineers.com.
- Amy Dominello