Chilson Road will be closed east of its intersection with Swarthout Road in Hamburg Township for culvert deck repair on April 7, 2008.  The closure is necessary to replace crumbling concrete on the deck of the span.  This phase of the work should be completed and reopened by April 21^st.

"We know that this is a popular shortcut for motorists in the Hamburg area and our contractor will be expediting his schedule," said Michael Craine, Road Commission Managing Director.  "This repair had been in the planning phase since last fall, but more damage this winter has caused us to advance the schedule."

Chilson Road carries approximately 5,300 cars on average daily basis.  The culvert, which conveys Chilson Creek, was built in the 1930s.  There are no current plans to replace it.  The culvert is not wide enough to permit part-width construction.

The repair consists of removing portions of the concrete deck and the entire damaged guardrail.  New concrete will be placed and tied into the existing structure.  The new concrete will need several days to cure to sufficient strength.

"We hope to have the new guardrail system in place before the bridge is reopened," Craine said.  "If the guardrail is held up for any reason, we will reopen by April 21st using a temporary barrier system."  The estimated cost of the repair of the culvert and replacement guardrail is $75,000.

The short duration of the closure will not require a detour.  It is expected that most through traffic will us Pettysville Road and M-36.

Chilson Road Closure Alert (pdf)

Chilson Road Closed for Repairs (Media Advisory)