2009 News

December 2, 2009

Bucks County Commissioners Reopen
County Bridge 151 (Silo Hill Rd.) in Plumstead Township
Bridge Damaged During Nov. 25, 2008 Incident

Silo Hill BridgeThe Bucks County Commissioners, along with officials from Plumstead Township and the Bucks County General Services division, cut the ribbon and re-opened County Bridge 151 on Silo Hill Road in Plumstead Township. 

On November 25, 2008, a 32-ton truck attempted to cross the 71 ft. long, 15 ft. wide, steel-truss structure, which has a six-ton weight restriction. Severe structural damage occurred, causing the bridge to be closed for repairs including; removing and replacing the deck, replacing the stringer beams, repairing the guardrails, repainting the structure, paving the approaches and the addition of stone retaining walls to prevent future, stream runoff damage.

Commissioners and Stacey Mulholland at the bridge cornerstoneThe total cost of repairs to the county was $288,428.  The county is now in litigation with the trucking company who caused the damage.

Originally built in 1902, Bridge 151 is a steel pratt pony truss bridge.  The original marble cornerstone states the bridge was originally named the “Chiltis Ford Bridge.”  It was reconstructed in 1934.  Bridge 151 is one of 115 bridges owned and maintained by the County of Bucks General Services department.

Commissioners at Silo Hill Bridge Ribbon Cutting Ceremony