The Route 865 Bridge project is moving along with construction as scheduled thanks to the steady work of PennDOT and New Enterprise Stone and Lime Co. Inc., providing that the project involves building over the Norfolk Southern Mainline and some of Main Street.
The $5.4 million project will offer a more convenient connection through Bellwood to Old Route 220 and the Bellwood interchange with Interstate 99. The new bridge will replace the old humpback bridge on Cambria Street, which will be torn down after the Route 865 project is completed on its targeted date of November.
Construction of the much needed bridge has more advantages than simply an easier route into Bellwood. The town and community can look forward to perhaps other benefits.
Ray Amato, Antis Township Supervisor, brought such benefits to light. “The finalized project will produce a much safer and convenient bridge. With its convenience, hopefully the bridge will bring new businesses into downtown Bellwood.”
Amato added that the completion of the Route 865 Bridge wouldn’t be possible without the joint efforts of PennDOT and New Enterprise Stone and Lime Co. Inc. with the storm water system. PennDOT and New Enterprise are working with the township on the system.
Storm water was a steady problem around the area of Sixth Street, which should be non-existant when construction is completed.
The Boyles Street pedestrian bridge, the first phase of the total project, which will connect Station Street and Bellwood-Antis Community Park, will not be completed at the projected date of the end of June.
The $1.5 million project is delayed from construction by Glenn O. Hawbaker Inc., State College. Amato added, “The bridge is completed, but it can’t be opened until hand rails, guard rails and lighting are installed.” Hawbaker’s are waiting for those necessities from a manufacturer.
Mid-August is the projected date for completion of the pedestrian bridge. Traffic should be moving on the Route 865 Bridge in late November.
