Markley Street Bridge In Norristown To Shut Down For 1 Year

NORRISTOWN, PA — The Markley Street Bridge will be shut down for a full year as a $7.8 million rehabilitation project gets underway.

Built in 1878, the stone arch bridge over Stony Creek carries about 24,993 vehicles per day, PennDOT estimates. Work is primarily being done to improve pedestrian access and add additional lanes to smooth out traffic.

The closure will begin on April 15 and will be in place on Markley Street between Marshall Street and Spruce Street. Elm Street will also be closed from Astor Street to Swede Street.

The closure will last until April 2025.

The 123-foot-wide structure will see its stone barriers replaced with concrete barriers, as well as other foundational improvements that will not impact the bridge's historic character. The structure is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places.

Upgraded traffic signals, curb ramps, signage, pavement markings, and more will be included in the project.

SEPTA's Elm Street Station is adjacent to the work zone, but will still be accessible by detour.

Delays are expected, and drivers should plan for extra traffic around the work zone.

J.D. Eckman is the general contractor.