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Lancaster County lowers load limits on several bridges, county engineer warns structures 'aren't headed in the right direction'
Summary
The county board approved a resolution to install traffic signs reducing load ratings on multiple Lancaster County bridges after County Engineer Pam Dingman reported those structures can no longer carry original design loads; commissioners approved the change to protect public safety.
Lancaster County commissioners on Jan. 27 approved a resolution authorizing installation of traffic signs that reduce load ratings on a list of county bridges, citing safety concerns and the structures' reduced capacity.
County Engineer Pam Dingman explained the signs will replace current postings and will "reduce the loads that will be allowed on these structures." She read a list of bridges to be affected, naming locations such as North 27th Street at Bridal (Bridge B 74), Northwest 84th Street (E 108), North 112th Street (H 66), 176th Street (J 98), West Pioneers (N 225), Rokeby Road (044), Whitstruck Road (R 168), Hickman Road (R 213) and South 134th Street (Y 64).
"What we would hope is that we could get to the point where someday we don't have load posted bridges in Lancaster County," Dingman said, but added that several structures "just aren't headed in the right direction." Commissioners voted to approve the resolution on a roll call.
The change reduces allowable loads to protect aging or deteriorated bridges; Dingman said the signs are a significant safety step while long-term solutions are pursued through inspection, repair or replacement planning. The board did not announce funding or a schedule for structural rehabilitation at the meeting.
