PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Work is underway on improvements to the Manayunk Bridge Trail.
The bridge was built in 1917 by the Pennsylvania Railroad, and was used by SEPTA until 1986, according to Rob Armstrong, trails and transportation program manager at Philadelphia's Office of Transportation, Infrastructure and Sustainability.
Armstrong told KYW Newsradio that the project, scheduled to run through early 2022, is aimed at making the bridge more than just a roadway.
"We are lighting the bridge, head scale lighting as well as lights that will be up in the catenary support," he described.
"Once we complete the construction, the bridge will be open for commuters and recreational use 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Right now it's closed in evenings."
Armstrong said video cameras are being installed as well for the safety of trail users. The total cost of the project is about $1.5 million.
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Once complete, people will be able to use the trail for leisure, recreation and commuting, among other uses. But it will also connect the city with neighboring communities.
"It's connected to the trail system in Montgomery County, the Kenwood Heritage Trail," said Armstrong. "It's part of the Circuit Trails network, which is the regional trail network in the city of Philadelphia. It can be used for any purpose that you would use a park."
The good news for people who use the bridge is that no closures are expected during the project.