WSP|Parsons Brinckerhoff designing new bridge in Oxford, N.J.

Oxford Township, N.J. — The New Jersey Department of Transportation awarded a contract to WSP|Parsons Brinckerhoff to design a replacement for the Route 31 Bridge over Furnace Brook in Oxford Township, New Jersey. The existing single-span bridge will be replaced with a 28-foot-long single-span structure with a precast concrete rigid frame.

The new structure will have an average curb-to-curb width of 86 feet and an average out-to-out width of 96 feet, 2 feet longer and 2 feet wider than the existing bridge. Architectural treatments will be designed to mimic the existing bridge. In addition, a two-rail parapet will be constructed on both sides to meet current vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle standards. The bridge is located in a historic district and may require coordination with the New Jersey Historic Preservation Office.

The project also includes replacing the traffic signal; providing a standard southbound shoulder; extending the auxiliary lane along Route 31 northbound north of Wall Street; bringing existing guide rails into conformance with current standards; and enhancing pedestrian accessibility with ramps compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

WSP|Parsons Brinckerhoff is providing comprehensive civil and structural design services for the project. During preliminary engineering, the firm proposed alternatives to accelerate construction, and developed plans for staged construction and maintenance of pedestrian access.

Construction is anticipated in 2019.