Communities to review Uhlerstown-Frenchtown bridge project next week

Editors Note: This article has been adjusted to reflect that the proper name of the bridge is the "Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Toll Supported Bridge." That means that the bridge is financially supported by tolls taken at DRJTBC toll bridges. The Uhlerstown-Frenchtown bridge itself is not, and is not proposed to become, a toll bridge.

The Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission will hold two open houses next week to share information and take feedback about its plan to restore the Uhlerstown-Frenchtown Toll Supported Bridge in 2025.

The 93-year-old bridge spans the Delaware River and links Tinicum Township in Bucks County and Frenchtown in Hunterdon County.

Constructed in the year 1931, this significant piece of both communities’ histories is in desperate need of reconstruction, according to the commission.

The bridge was built of a six-span riveted steel Warren truss that had a wooden road deck until the year 1949. It is relatively tight, only having a roadway of 16 feet and 6 inches. The existing structure can hold up to 15 tons and carries a height restriction of 12-feet-6-inches.

The rehabilitation work won’t change the width or alter the height and weight limits.

It will replace the bridge’s steel structure, clean and repaint the framework and underlying bearings and repair abutments, piers and retaining walls, according to the commission.

The restored bridge would incorporate an LED lighting system that the commission says will make the bridge more visible at night and enhance the view of the river.

In January, the commission awarded engineering firm WSP USA a $1.77-million contract to handle design work for the project, which is meant to ensure that the bridge is operational for another 15 years. The design work is expected to be done by the fall.

At the open houses, members of the public will be welcome to speak with the individuals who are working on the renovation of the bridge.

These events will allow residents to ask questions and become more aware of the changes forthcoming in the communities of Frenchtown and Uhlerstown.

The first open house will be held on Monday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Delaware Valley Volunteer Fire Company in Tinicum (75 Headquarters Road Erwina). The second will be Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Frenchtown American Legion Post 113 (510 Harrison St. Frenchtown.)

The commission also maintains a website — http://www.drjtbc.org/project/frenchtownbridge — where members of the public can view materials and publish questions and comments. The public comment period for this project ends at 4 p.m. July 12.

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