Work is scheduled to begin next week on a project to replace a bridge in Mercer County.

The $3.9 million project to replace the bridge that carries Scrubgrass Road over Cool Spring Creek in Findley Township is scheduled to begin Thursay, August 15 weather permitting.

The project will replace the existing steel beam bridge with a new concrete beam bridge. Work will also consist of minor paving and new pavement markings near the bridge.

The existing bridge was built in 1954 and is classified as poor condition and posted with a weight limit of 25 tons for single and 30 tons for combos. Approximately 1,800 vehicles use that bridge per day.

Because Cool Spring Creek is a stocked trout stream with endangered species, instream work is restricted between February 15 and August 15 of each year.

The demolition of the bridge and pier will happen in 2024, allowing for construction to halt between November of 2024 and March of 2025 for winter weather. However, crews may work outside of the stream during that time if weather permits.

Full work is expected to resume in March of 2025 with the roadway expected to reopen in July of 2025.

During the construction period, drivers will need to use a detour utilizing Route 19, Route 62 and Springfield Church Road. This detour is expected to remain in place for 11 months.