A major multi-county bridge preservation project is set to bring improvements to a key Schuylkill County roadway, with work scheduled to begin this month.
According to project details, a $5,244,634.90 contract through the Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance (NEPA MPO) will fund preservation and repair work on nine bridges across the region, including two in Schuylkill County. The project also includes bridges in Carbon and Monroe counties.
According to Sean Brown,, Safety Press Officer for PA Department of Transportation | Engineering District 5, the project will focus on the Route 183 (Pottsville Street) bridge spanning the Schuylkill River in North Manheim Township near Cressona and Schuylkill Haven. The bridge is located between Route 61 and the entrance to the Cressona Mall.
Work on the Route 183 bridge is expected to begin in March and continue through late October.
Officials say drivers should not expect a full closure of the bridge during construction. However, motorists will encounter traffic impacts, including lane shifts and possible off-peak lane restrictions. Flagging operations may also be used at times to manage traffic flow through the work zone.
The improvements are part of a broader effort to preserve infrastructure and extend the lifespan of bridges throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
Motorists traveling through the area are advised to use caution, remain alert for changing traffic patterns, and allow extra time when traveling through the construction zone.