Two bridges spanning the 10-mile-long Lewes-Rehoboth Canal are set to get makeovers this year.
DelDOT officials say the bridges in Lewes and Rehoboth Beach need rehabilitation work done to them.
“Both bridges now are more than 40-years-old and are in need of badly needed upgrades, both mechanically and electronically to their systems. Both bridges are structurally sound and safe. But it’s just time to give them a good overhaul so they can operate more efficiently,” said C.R. McLeod, DelDOT Director of Community Relations.
McLeod points out that over the past several years, the bridge in Rehoboth has become stuck when opening and/or closing, causing problems for motorists trying to get into and out of the resort.
McLeod says work on both spans, which are raised and lowered approximately 20 times a year, will begin in late spring or early summer at a price-tag of $7 million.
Most of the work will be done at night and McLeod says DelDOT expects it should have minimal impact on area motorists.
“Work on both bridges’ will be happening concurrently, so you’ll see work happening in both Lewes and Rehoboth. There shouldn’t be any major detours or delays associated with it, as a lot of the work will be happening underneath the bridges and inside the internal workings," said McLeod.
But McLeod notes one lane closures may be needed during the day at some points during work on the spans.
