PennDot closes Fetters Mill Bridge

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

PennDot closes

Fetters Mill Bridge

BRYN ATHYN The 130-year-old Fetters Mill Bridge is closed again after inspectors from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation found problems that make it dangerous.

"During a routine PennDot inspection, it was discovered that beams supporting the Fetters Mill Bridge were deteriorating and need to be replaced or rehabbed," Montgomery County spokeswoman Jessica Willingham said. "The bridge was ordered to be closed immediately due to concerns for the safety of users, which is a top priority."

The bridge will remain closed until a plan for repairs is made and the fixes are completed.

Willingham said officials would have a better idea of when the bridge might be able to be reopened after a fuller assessment. Signs will direct drivers around it.

The bridge, which crosses Pennypack Creek and connects Lower Moreland and Bryn Athyn, has long had structural problems. Traffic on it was barred toward the end of last year because of safety concerns, and authorities reopened it in April.

Since then, traffic had been able to cross it but with restrictions. Only one car at a time and only certain heavy vehicles, such as emergency vehicles, were allowed.

Knowing the bridge needs an extreme makeover, the county held a meeting in September to gather public comments. The county has said it hopes to begin a complete restoration of the bridge next year.

- Carolyn Davis