Press Release

PUC Approves Application for City of Butler to Begin Construction on Bridge

Published on 5/1/2008

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

Harrisburg – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved the application for the City of Butler to reconstruct the crossing located at Monroe Street and the tracks of CSX Transportation Inc, operated by the Buffalo & Pittsburgh Railroad Inc.

“This is a bridge that is in desperate need of repairs,” said PUC Commissioner Tyrone J. Christy of Butler County.  “Once the construction is complete, residents and visitors to the City of Butler will be able to enjoy a ride or stroll across the new and improved bridge.”

On April 9, 2007, the City of Butler filed an application to reconstruct the crossing by replacing the existing bridge structure which carries the city street above the grade of the railroad tracks with a structure that will provide two, 12-foot wide traffic lanes with three-foot shoulders on both sides, as well as a five-foot wide sidewalk that will be constructed on the west side of the bridge.   The current bridge can carry a five-ton load.  Once the structure is replaced, it will be capable of carrying legal loads of up to 40 tons.  The city will construct the bridge improvement at its own expense. 

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more  information about the PUC, visit our Web site at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. A-00123628

Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov