Pennsylvania rail authority lets contract for new bridge

The SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority (JRA) on June 12 awarded a $9.1 million contract to Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc. to rebuild the Loyalsock Creek Bridge, which is located between Montoursville and Williamsport, Pa.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's Bureau of Rail Freight Assistance approved the contract award.

The former 85-year-old, 350-foot bridge over the creek was demolished after it was severely damaged by flooding caused by Tropical Storm Lee in 2011. The new 474-foot bridge will feature a larger hydraulic opening — a hydraulic concept that's a significant improvement from the old bridge, said JRA Chairman Jerry Walls in a press release.

The new bridge will be constructed atop two piers, which will be anchored in bedrock 50 feet below grade to help prevent damage from future flooding and high-water situations. In addition, the bridge's height will be three feet above water flow, based on 100-year storm levels.