Historic Schooley's Mountain Road Bridge Restoration Commences Next Week in Morris County

Long-Awaited Rehabilitation Project for the Century-Old Bridge to Ensure Extended Lifespan and Improved Travel Experience. 

Rehabilitation work for the historic Schooley's Mountain Road Bridge in the German Valley Historic District will begin next week on June 16, right after the closure of schools in Washington Township, Morris County officials announced today. 

The four-span stone arch bridge, crossing over the South Branch of the Raritan River, was constructed in 1906 to replace the original 1876 structure. As a well-regarded historic landmark in Long Valley and an essential transportation link for local residents, the bridge is in need of substantial rehabilitation. Despite a significant restoration in 1994, the downstream (western) stone spandrel wall now requires full reconstruction. 

Funded by Morris County, the $1.008 million project entails rebuilding the downstream wall and removing all material above the stone arches. The plan includes the installation of lightweight concrete and a new waterproof membrane above the arches, extending the bridge's life for another 30-40 years. The bridge's riding surface will also be newly paved upon project completion, enhancing the travel experience. The upstream wall, still in excellent condition since the last restoration, will not undergo rehabilitation. 

The project will be executed in two phases. During the first phase, expected to last 51 days, the southbound lane will be closed to facilitate the spandrel wall's removal and reconstruction. Northbound traffic will be permitted to cross the bridge during this phase. The bridge will be fully closed in the second phase as contractors remove and replace all material above the stone arches, an operation slated to last 21 days. Officials are aiming to complete the entire project by the time schools reopen on August 23, 2023. 

Detours have been set up to ensure smooth traffic flow. During the first phase, southbound traffic will be rerouted via Flocktown Road to Naughright Road to Bartley Road. This detour will be applied to both directions of travel when the bridge is completely closed in the second phase. Temporary traffic signals will be installed at specific intersections for the duration of the project. 

The county has awarded the contract to CMS Construction Corporation of Plainfield, New Jersey, the lowest responsible bidder. This comprehensive rehabilitation follows emergency repairs conducted on February 2, 2023, after a motor vehicle accident caused significant damage. 

"While the county understands this is a hardship to anyone commuting this section of Schooley’s Mountain Road, this historic arch bridge has served the community for nearly 150 years and residents can look forward to having a safer, better-looking bridge in a few short months." - Morris County Press Release.