A bridge in Lehigh Township is scheduled for replacement next year.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation has invited the public to an online plan display for a project to replace the Maple Drive bridge over a tributary to Bertsch Creek in Lehigh Township.

The bridge will be closed for about three months to all traffic during construction. The proposed 2.3-mile detour route will utilize Route 248 (Lehigh Drive) and Mountain View Drive.

Work is expected to take place during the 2023 construction season.

PennDOT said the purpose of the project is to address structural deficiencies of this bridge which was constructed in 1933 and provide continued safe and efficient access on Maple Drive.

The project consists of replacing the existing single-span steel I-beam bridge, reconstructing the pavement along the roadway tie-ins of the new precast reinforced concrete box culvert structure and replacing guide rail. The existing 26 foot curb-to-curb bridge width consisting of two 11-foot lanes and two 2-foot shoulders will be maintained.

PennDOT invites community members to provide public input for the project. To access the webpage, visit www.PennDOT.gov/District5 click on the Public Meetings link under the District Links heading, pick the Northampton County box, and then choose the Maple Drive over a tributary to Bertsch Creek project tile.

The purpose of the plans display is to introduce the project and solicit public input, questions, or concerns regarding the project.