Mill Creek Bridge in Lower Merion will finally be replaced after its 18-month closure. Richard Ilgenfritz reported the good news for area commuters in Mainline Media News.

According to an announcement from Montgomery County officials, replacement for of original span, battered by Hurricane Ida, begins Mar. 6.

E. Pierson Construction of Pilesgrove, New Jersey is doing the work.

The replacement will be done in two phases: demolition and construction. The separate timelines are needed to accommodate the relocation of an active PECO gas main and a township sanitary drain.

The contractor’s scope includes:

• Restoration of a sidewalk adjacent to Mill Creek Bridge
• Wider approach roads to accommodate three lanes
• Installation of a safety barrier

Area drivers can expect detours until construction is completed.

The old version of Mill Creek Bridge dates to 1956 and was identified as structurally deficient during a routine inspection in 2018.

State funds are footing the entire $2.6 million for the replacement.

More about Mill Creek Bridge is at Mainline Media News.

_____

Replacing an existing bridge is an intricate operation; but in time-lapse, it appears almost as if by magic.