Sappey urges PennDOT to prioritize replacement of Doe Run Road Bridge
Rep. Christina Sappey December 6, 2024 | 12:14 PM
HARRISBURG, Dec. 6 – State Rep. Christina Sappey said today that she is working closely with PennDOT to assure plans continue moving forward on replacing the Route 82 bridge over Doe Run, as its closure is creating stress on nearby roads and impacting first responders and commuters.
The bridge carrying Doe Run Road (Route 82) over Doe Run in West Marlborough Township was unexpectedly closed in November after an inspection determined significant deterioration to the steel beams and deck. The eight-mile detour around the bridge closure directs motorists to use Route 841 (Chatham Road) and Route 842 (Clonmell Upland Road).
“The Doe Run Road Bridge is used heavily by over-sized agricultural vehicles, connects customers to businesses, is a major throughfare for commuters traveling from Coatesville to Delaware, and is a vital crossing for first responders,” said Sappey, D-Chester. “Any fire incident could prove catastrophic to the numerous large animal ag operations in the area due to delays caused by the bridge closure.
“The entire situation is dangerous for area residents and drivers. While the hope is vehicles will use the PennDOT established detour route, GPS and other sources are also directing motorists onto narrow, local roads around the bridge closure. These arterial routes lack shoulders, painted lines and have no speed enforcement, further endangering my constituents.”
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission placed the bridge’s replacement in their Transportation Improvement Program on Wednesday, allotting $1.2 million for its replacement. PennDOT expects to advertise for the job next month.
“Thanks to Rep. Sappey's swift leadership and dedication, the replacement and repair of the Doe Run Road Bridge will ensure safer travel for our community, and I commend her for her quick response and unwavering commitment to improving local infrastructure,” said Josh Maxwell, Chester County commissioner and DVRPC chair. “I'm proud to have played a role in helping to usher the necessary DVRPC funding for this crucial project forward.”
Built in 1932, the 58-foot-long structure carried approximately 4,881 vehicles per day. The bridge was posted for 15 tons in March 2024.
“I implore, on the behalf of local residents and commuters all over Chester County, that PennDOT keep prioritizing the Doe Run Road Bridge for replacement,” Sappey said. “Its closure is a major difficulty for everyone in the region.”