A state Department of Transportation project replacing an aging Waverly Twp. bridge will divert more traffic into the community’s historic district.
PennDOT will replace the existing stone masonry closed spandrel arch culvert bridge on Miller Road spanning Ackerly Creek with a 20-by-6-foot precast concrete box culvert bridge, with two 11-foot travel lanes and 3-foot-long shoulders.
Additional work includes 375 feet of roadway reconstruction, guardrail upgrades, drainage improvements, and new grading, signing and pavement markings. One utility line is also expected to be relocated, according to PennDOT.
The project is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to start in spring 2028, and the project anticipated to be completed in fall 2028. While the work is underway, PennDOT will set up a 2-mile detour beginning at Miller and North Abington roads, along North Abington Road, ending at Carbondale Road and Miller Road.
The detour means more traffic through the township’s Historic District. North Abington Road has an average traffic volume of 4,532 vehicles per day in both directions, according to PennDOT data. There are an average of 921 vehicles per day that travel Miller Road in both directions.
The current bridge, built in 1920, is listed in poor condition on PennDOT’s bridge conditions map. It is 11 feet long with one span.
Officials say the project’s purpose is to “address the deficiencies of the existing structure and provide continued safe and efficient access for the traveling public on Route 4007 over Ackerly Creek.” Construction of the bridge is estimated to cost $1.2 million, PennDOT District 4 spokeswoman Jessica Ruddy said.
PennDOT will present the plans during the township supervisors meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday in the Municipal Building.
The plans display will be available online through March 24. Information can be found on the PennDOT District 4 website under Route 4007 (Miller Road) over Ackerly Creek Structure Project.