Parr’s Mill Covered Bridge Rehabilitation

This project involved the rehabilitation of an 84-foot long historic burr arch truss timber covered bridge to maintain the bridge in a serviceable condition. After the rehabilitation, the covered bridge will be closed to traffic.

As part of the rehabilitation, one vertical member, four portal sills/verticals, one knee brace, and 14 members are being repaired/spliced in-kind due to deterioration. The upstream siding will be replaced to match the older downstream siding. The repair of the truss members will be necessitate the replacement of the first 12 feet of deck on both ends of the bridge, including rub rail, curb, running boards, and both layers of the deck. New timber bearing seats will be constructed and the existing stone masonry abutments were re pointed as part of the project.

A 63-foot long steel pony truss bridge that was previously located on the immediate south approach to the covered bridge was removed from service as part of the project. The steel pony truss bridge was demolished as part of the project and permanent roadway barricades were installed on each approach.

Improvements to Birch Lane were also included as part of the project. The improvements included regrading, minor roadway profile adjustments, resurfacing with 6 inch subbase No.2A material, and a Bituminous Surface Treatment (tar and chip).

LDG coordinated with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDot) Engineering District 3-0, Columbia County Commissioners, Franklin Township Supervisors, Cleveland Township Supervisors, and Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) to discuss the proposed project and receive concurrence of the proposed work from PHMC, since the existing structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.