Valley Forge's Knox Bridge Scheduled for Restoration

The following was provided by PennDOT

An operation to restore and enhance the historic Knox Covered Bridge on Yellow Springs Road in Valley Forge National Historical Park and Tredyffrin Township, Chester County, will close the bridge for two weeks starting, Monday, Aug. 20, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation said today.

Crews will refurbish the covered bridge by removing deteriorated wooden panels and replacing them with freshly painted wood. The bridge is expected to reopen by Aug. 31.

The restoration project is a partnership effort between PennDOT, The Friends of Valley Forge Park and the Valley Forge National Historical Park.

During the bridge closure, posted detour signs will direct motorists over Route 252 (Valley Forge Road/Swedesford Road), Swedesford Road and North Valley Road.

J.D. Eckman, Inc. of Atglen, Chester County is the general contractor on the $50,000 project, which is financed with 100 percent state funds.  Nolan Painting of Havertown, Delaware County is donating the labor to paint the structure, while the paint is being donated by The Sherwin-Williams Company.  

The Knox Covered Bridge over Valley Creek was originally built in 1865 and rehabilitated in 1960 and 1996. The well-known landmark in Valley Forge is 10 feet wide and 50 feet long. It carries an average of 2,000 vehicles a day.

PennDOT reminds motorists they can log on to www.511pa.com or call 511 from any phone to check traffic conditions on major highways before heading out.

For more PennDOT information, visit www.dot.state.pa.us. Follow local PennDOT information on Twitter at www.twitter.com/511PAPhilly.