6-14-2023 1:39pm

Historic Millbrook Avenue Bridge Set for Rehabilitation; Road Closures Expected

Chris Connors Editor

The Morris County project, starting June 19th and anticipated for completion by August end, aims to reconstruct the 1930s-era stone masonry arch bridge in Randolph.

The Millbrook Avenue Bridge in Randolph, Morris County, will be undergoing much-needed rehabilitation starting June 19th, 2023.

The renovation, which is anticipated to conclude by August 25, will necessitate a full roadway closure of Millbrook Avenue between Fords Road and Piersons Hill Road. Traffic will be rerouted via Center Grove Road and Schoolhouse Road.

The stone masonry arch bridge, built in 1930, has been a critical component of Randolph's infrastructure for more than nine decades. According to county records, it has a span length of 17 feet and carries two lanes of traffic over Mill Brook with a roadway width of 23 feet.

Over time, water infiltration and freeze/thaw cycles have degraded the bridge's mortar and dislodged its stonework.

The rehabilitation project, costing $697,000 and fully funded by Morris County, will include reconstructing the stone masonry elements (parapets, retaining walls, and footings), reinforcing the arch, protecting the arch from water infiltration, and improving surface drainage. These enhancements will help preserve the structure for future generations and improve traffic safety and flow.

"A full roadway closure of Millbrook Avenue at the bridge will be necessary for the work," reads a county press release. "While the county understands this is a hardship to anyone commuting this section of Millbrook Avenue, this historic arch bridge has served the community for more than 90 years and residents can look forward to having a safer, more beautiful bridge in a few short months."

During construction, traffic will be directed via variable message signs, detour signs, and other measures. Motorists are advised to anticipate delays and consider alternate routes.

The project is being carried out by Sparwick Contracting, Inc., a reputable contracting firm based in Lafayette, New Jersey, that secured the project as the lowest responsible bidder.