Old Bethlehem Pike Bridge replacement begins in Lower Gwynedd Township
Lower Gwynedd Township officials have announced that construction on the Old Bethlehem Pike Bridge Replacement project has begun.
Construction started this week following delays related to utility line relocation. Township officials said utility work took longer than anticipated, but replacement of the bridge is now set in motion.
The project is located on Old Bethlehem Pike behind the Lower Gwynedd Township Building, where the existing culvert and bridge structure have been determined to be structurally compromised. Engineering assessments previously led to a weight restriction that prevents large vehicles from safely crossing the bridge.
The old structure, which was a single-span stone masonry arch bridge, is being replaced with a pre-cast concrete arch bridge designed to meet modern safety standards while maintaining an attractive appearance. The new bridge will feature textured pattern concrete walls, providing both durability and visual appeal that complements the surrounding area.
The bid for the bridge replacement project was awarded to G&B Construction, Inc. on Jan. 6, 2025. G&B Construction will serve as the contractor throughout the duration of the work.
Streambank Restoration Along Willow Run
In conjunction with the bridge replacement, the township will also undertake a streambank restoration project along Willow Run, a tributary of Wissahickon Creek that runs near Old Bethlehem Pike.
Officials say the project is designed to address ongoing erosion along both sides of the stream and combat the effects of “urban creek syndrome,” a condition affecting parts of the Wissahickon watershed. Issues associated with urban creek syndrome include flash flooding, increased pollution, degraded wildlife habitat, and reduced biodiversity.
By stabilizing the streambanks, the restoration project aims to restore the natural function of the stream corridor, reduce sediment and pollutants entering the waterway, and improve overall water quality throughout the Wissahickon Creek watershed.
Project Funding
The two projects are being funded through separate grants:
- The bridge replacement is supported by a Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Local Share Account Grant.
- The streambank restoration is funded through the DCED Watershed Restoration and Protection Program Grant and Montgomery County ARPA funds, secured through the Wissahickon Clean Water Partnership.
Township officials say the combined projects will deliver long-term benefits by improving public safety, strengthening critical infrastructure, and enhancing environmental health for residents and downstream communities.
Residents with questions, concerns, or special needs during construction are encouraged to contact G&B Construction, Inc. at 215-919-6600 or Lower Gwynedd Township at 215-646-5302.
Additional updates regarding traffic impacts, detours, and construction timelines will be shared as the project progresses.
