The second phase of the Birmingham Bridge Complex Preservation Project started this morning, with work conducted on the southbound side.
The northbound side underwent construction in the project’s first phase in 2015. The adjustments include repainting, light pole replacements and concrete and deck resurfacing.
Steve Cowan, PennDOT spokesman, said the $28.5 million preservation project will bring the bridge to where it needs to be.
“The bottom line is the bridge needs significant improvements," Cowan said. "It’s an important river crossing for the city of Pittsburgh and we have significantly underfunded our infrastructure for decades."
According to Cowan, approximately 21,000 vehicles cross the bridge that links Oakland to the South Side on a daily basis.
Cowan said the Birmingham Bridge is one of many bridges throughout the state in need, because of the lack of funding for important improvements.
Cowan added, as a result the project is part of the state’s increasing efforts to rehab structurally deficient bridges.
“It’s a bridge preservation project, so there are numerous items that are critical for this project," Cowan said. "The bridge deck, the superstructure and steel repairs are all important components."
Throughout construction, all southbound traffic will be moved to the newly completed northbound lane. Bicycles and pedestrians are directed to use the bridge’s barrier-protected sidewalk on the northbound side.
The second phase will conclude in November and and construction is expected to finish in spring 2017.
Specific detours can be found on PennDOT’s website.
