Rapid Bridge Replacement Project's 200th bridge completed

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - Completion of the Route 414 bridge, spanning a tributary to Towanda Creek in Franklin Township, Bradford County, marks the 200th bridge replaced under the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation’s Rapid Bridge Replacement Project.

For nearly two years, construction crews have been working diligently across Pennsylvania, replacing aging bridges with new structures that are designed to last over 100 years.

To date, 84 bridges have been completed in the West region of the state; 63 in the Central region; and 53 in the East region.

“We are committed to replacing bridges that are constructed on-time, with as little disruption as possible and that proudly serve Pennsylvania communities into the next generation,” said Ed Kitzman, project director for Walsh/Granite JV.

“Standardized designs, accelerated construction schedules and pre-fabricated parts are key components of this flagship project that allow us to work quickly and efficiently.”

The Rapid Bridge Replacement Project brings together some of the country’s most skilled designers and builders from the consortium of Plenary Walsh Keystone Partners to join forces with area experts and hundreds of local subcontractors.

Currently, 1,122 contracts have been awarded to subcontractors and suppliers, many of which are based in Pennsylvania. 

“Plenary Walsh Keystone Partners would like to extend a special thank you to all of the workers who have made the project successful thus far, the communities for their patience and support during construction and PennDOT for its consistent partnership on the project,” said Ed Dice, head of delivery for Plenary Walsh Keystone Partners.

Construction for the Rapid Bridge Replacement Project commenced in mid-2015. There are more than 200 bridges slated for replacement in 2017 and more than 100 bridges in 2018.

About the Rapid Bridge Replacement Project

The Rapid Bridge Replacement Project originated in 2013 when PennDOT was challenged by an aging, structurally deficient bridge inventory and limited funding and resources.

Through this US$899 million public-private partnership (P3) with Plenary Walsh Keystone Partners, PennDOT is replacing 558 of the state’s roughly 3,500 structurally deficient bridges.

Plenary Walsh Keystone Partners is tasked with financing, designing, replacing and maintaining the bridges for 25 years.

The P3 approach allows PennDOT to replace the bridges more quickly while achieving significant savings and minimizing impacts on motorists.  

To see the bridges included in the statewide initiative and to learn more about the Rapid Bridge Replacement Project visit www.parapidbridges.com

Vice President, Corporate Affairs
+1 604 638 5260
+1 604 418 2722
stephanie.williamson@plenarygroup.com