FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                               

September 2, 2009                                                   

Lancaster, PA (September 2, 2009) –The County of Lancaster received statewide recognition for the replacement of Auction Road Bridge at the 2009 County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania’s (CCAP) Annual Conference.  Auction Road Bridge, historic in design, crosses Chickies Creek in northwestern Lancaster County. 

“The Auction Road Bridge was in dire need of replacement to ensure the safety of its travelers,” stated Commissioner Dennis Stuckey.  “It was imperative that the bridge’s excessive concrete deterioration, single-lane cartway, and dangerous sight vision be corrected in the most efficient and effective manor while still preserving its historic design.”

According to Commissioner Scott Martin, the Auction Road Bridge Replacement project was completed in 6 months and was paid for with county liquid fuels funds and Act 44 funds.  “The reconstruction design we implemented provides heightened safety for travelers and pedestrians; increases the bridge’s load rating to support local industries; and protects a piece of Pennsylvania’s history,” said Commissioner Martin. 

The 27^th Annual Road/Bridge Safety Improvement Program, offered by CCAP, the Pennsylvania Highway Information Association, and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, recognizes one county’s outstanding road safety improvement efforts each year.  The award is based on a review of road and bridge safety improvements in all 67 counties. 

“We are honored to be selected for this award and pleased to have preserved the original historic design during the reconstruction process,” said Commissioner Craig Lehman.   The Auction Road Bridge is one of four concrete-tied arches remaining in Pennsylvania, and the first whose replacement replicates the original bridge design.  “All who were involved in the reconstruction process, including the prior Board of Commissioners, should be commended.”