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Committee hears plan to replace Elwood pedestrian bridge and add stormwater and streambank repairs
Summary
The Infrastructure Committee received a multi-part update on replacing the Elwood pedestrian bridge, building a stormwater sediment-capture facility, and repairing a failing streambank; staff said grants (MCO/MONCO 2040, DCNR C2P2) are in process and construction could start in early spring 2027 if permits and funding align.
At the March 24 meeting the committee received a detailed update on the Elmwood Avenue project, which combines a pedestrian-bridge replacement with stormwater improvements and streambank stabilization intended to connect into El Grove Park.
Public works staff said utilities work and conduit relocations along Elwood Avenue are ongoing and will continue over the next several months, with some temporary night work and pole work to complete the utility disconnects. Staff said neighbors will be notified in advance of any night operations.
Engineers described a four-part scope: demolition and replacement of the existing pedestrian bridge (with improved walk-way stubouts for future park connections), construction of a stormwater facility at the end of Elmwood Avenue to capture sediment and provide rate/volume control, streambank stabilization (replacing failing gabion baskets with a new boulder wall), and a localized excavation to accommodate the stormwater facility. Penoni engineer Tony Catalazi confirmed the failing gabion baskets will be replaced by a stronger boulder wall.
Staff outlined the funding and permitting timeline: a regional MCO/MONCO 2040 submission was filed in March; the DCNR C2P2 application is due at the end of April; DCNR awards are typically announced in November; and the borough-level D permit is in review with a multi-month cycle. If grant awards and permitting align, staff said construction could begin in early spring 2027.
Committee members discussed future phases of park naturalization, MS4 crediting for water-quality work, and the limits of the borough’s authority where ownership crosses the creek center line. Engineering and project-management details remain subject to permitting and grant award conditions.
