The City of Summit is announcing the Morris Avenue Bridge replacement project is on-schedule for spring 2017 completion.
“Over the past 10 months, work has focused on utility relocation over and around the railroad tracks during late nights and weekends to avoid impact on the commuter rail line,” explains Summit Mayor Nora Radest. “The contractor has raised a shield to protect electric lines and tracks beneath the existing structure to allow for demolition of the current bridge in early July. Once that happens, the progress will be noticeable.”
The bridge over the Morris & Essex rail line has been closed since August 11, 2015 for rehabilitation to improve structural integrity, increase load carrying capacity, and improve traffic, pedestrian and railroad safety. It is being replaced by New Jersey Transit with funding from the State Transportation Trust Fund in a project that was expected to take approximately 18 months to complete.
While the work is taking place, Morris Avenue between Springfield Avenue and Kent Place Boulevard has been completely closed. Vehicle, pedestrian and bus detours are in place and Summit Police have been closely monitoring detour routes for traffic calming and pedestrian safety.
Inquiries about the project may be made by calling NJ TRANSIT Customer Service at 973.275.5555 or visiting njtransit.com. Periodic updates are available on the City of Summit website at cityofsummit.org.