Cly Road Bridge over Conewago Creek Bridge Replacement

Larson Design Group (LDG) provided final design services for the replacement of the three-span Cly Road Bridge (SR 1013-015) over Conewago Creek in Newberry Township, York County. Originally built in 1974, the bridge featured spans of approximately 75 feet each and carried two 12-foot travel lanes with 10-foot shoulders.

The replacement superstructure was designed with prestressed spread box beams and a reinforced concrete deck, maintaining the existing span and width while reducing the number of beams required. Innovative features included the use of high-strength concrete and larger-diameter strands, which allowed for fewer beams and a lighter structure while preserving the bridge’s slender profile. Barrier heights were maintained to protect the creek viewshed and avoid impacts to the 100-year floodplain.

LDG carefully considered site constraints, including nearby wetlands, steep embankments, and the sharp intersection with Bower Bridge Road. A construction entrance was strategically located to minimize environmental impacts, and truck turning movements were modeled to ensure safe access. The project also required analysis of the existing abutments, which led to design solutions such as restricting heavy equipment use during construction and incorporating geosynthetic reinforced soil (GRS) backfill to reduce lateral loading.

Additional improvements included retrofitting new safety wings into the abutments with drilled and doweled rebar connections, with curved wings on the south side to align with the intersection geometry.

Constructability was a key focus throughout the project. LDG coordinated beam delivery and crane placement, secured approvals for a shortened construction detour, managed utility relocations, and designed a cofferdam system to allow scour protection installation. Close collaboration with PennDOT and the contractor ensured timely reviews, responsive adjustments, and smooth project delivery.