New span dedicated to take place one of long-closed bridge
UPPER TYRONE TWP. – A 137-foot bridge connecting Everson and Scottdale was officially dedicated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by a bevy of local and state officials on Monday. The Fifth Avenue Bridge was completed in November by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) District 12. It’s located on the Fayette/Westmoreland County line along legislative route 1031.
The $1.1 million project included the construction of a two-span concrete bridge and the related roadwork to tie it in with the existing pavement. The bridge has two 12-foot-wide lanes and two five-foot shoulders and replaces a one-lane structure that was closed in 1991 when it was deemed unsafe.
“A project like this doesn’t happen overnight,” said Merle Bolen, Fayette County maintenance manager for PennDOT.
Bolen commended the efforts of those behind the project, including state Sen. Richard A. Kasunic (D-Dunbar) and state Rep. James Shaner (D-Dunbar).
The project is part of PennDOT’s 12-year plan, in which money is allocated for various road projects on a priority basis. The plan is updated every two years and will be reviewed again in July.
Michael F. Dufalla, PennDOT district engineer, said that after the bridge was closed, motorists were limited to traveling one way in and out of both boroughs.
“It’s a nice addition,” said Dufalla of the new structure.
With the bridge now completed, Dufalla said that PennDOT would continue to maintain it over the next 25 to 40 years.
“Typically, we shoot for a 50-year span of life for a bridge like this,” Dufalla added.
At first, Kasunic said there were no plans to rebuild the bridge, but he heard from area residents and officials about the health and safety factors involved if it wasn’t reopened.
“It was important to know that the next time there is something like trees blocking the area that we would have an alternative route,” added Kasunic.
“It’s been long in coming. I’m glad it’s completed,” said Sam Killinger, Upper Tyrone Township supervisor.