A structural assessment of both trestles resting over Iron and Spring Streets, by a qualified engineering firm that deals with bridge structures, will cost the borough approximately $18,000, should it decide to move forward in a trail project.
The total cost of the assessment is about $50,000. A 50/50 match grant available from the County reduces the cost to $25,000.
One of the trestles, the one over Iron Street, is jointly owned by Wilson Borough.
Should Wilson decide to go forward with the joint trail project already discussed in meetings with them, they would contribute 1/4 of the cost of the assessment (their 1/2 of the trestle crossing Iron St.). Their share would be just over $6000.
The assessment of the trestles would give the borough a better understanding of the condition of the trestles and recommendations, providing information on whether they could be completely saved, redesigned, supported differently, or should be completely removed.
A PennDOT inspection of the trestles done in 2016 was a visual inspection and addressed only the problems that were of an immediate safety concern, such as hanging railroad ties over the roadway and the need for signage.
No decision has been made on moving forward.
Disclaimer: On January 4, 2016, the owner of WestEastonPA.com began serving on the West Easton Council following an election. Postings and all content found on this website are the opinions of Matthew A. Dees and may not necessarily represent the opinion of the governing body for The Borough of West Easton.
