Delayed bridge opening set for the 31st

MINISINK FORD, NY — The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has informed the National Park Service that the Roebling Bridge between Minisink Ford, and Lackawaxen, PA, will reopen to traffic on Friday, October 31.

The National Historiac Landmark Roebling Bridge was to reopen on October 17 according to FHWA Project Engineer Thomas Jones. But Jones said that the concrete decking must cure for seven to 10 days and the sidewalk panels must be replaced before traffic can be permitted on the bridge. The FHWA provides funds, develops specifications, awards contracts, and inspects and oversees all aspects of federal bridge repair.

After milling of the surface of the bridge deck, a new layer of concrete was poured on October 16. Beginning this week, sidewalk panels will be installed starting from the Pennsylvania side.

Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River Superintendent Dave Forney regrets that the bridge will not be completed in the contracted time.

“It is disappointing and a terrible inconvenience for the local communities,” commented Forney, who has nonetheless guaranteed that the bridge will be reopened in time for the November 9, Lackawaxen celebration of the park service’s 25th anniversary in the Upper Delaware.