BERLIN TOWNSHIP ODOT will replace 2 bridges over creek

The jobs should take only one construction season.
By BOB JACKSON
VINDICATOR COURTHOUSE REPORTER
YOUNGSTOWN -- Construction is to begin in the spring for replacement of two bridges over Turkey Broth Creek in Berlin Township.
One is a 600-foot, two-lane bridge on state Route 534, just north of Berlin Center. It's being replaced because of its deteriorated condition, said Ohio Department of Transportation spokeswoman Paula Putnam.
The cost is estimated at $344,000.
She said the state will have to acquire some rights of way from property owners for the project. Owners whose properties will be affected will be contacted soon by ODOT to discuss the impact the project will have on them.
The other project involves a two-lane bridge just west of Berlin Center on U.S. Route 224. The cost of replacing that 270-foot span is $177,000, Putnam said.
Expected completion
Both bridges should be open by fall 2003, Putnam said. Traffic will be maintained during construction, with the exception of one stretch of up to 60 days during which their respective roads will be closed. Official detours will be posted.
Putnam said anyone with questions or comments about the projects should submit them to ODOT by Friday.
The Route 224 bridge is just east of a larger project that's under construction, also on Route 224.
A larger bridge that crosses the Berlin Reservoir has been under construction since Feb. 4, forcing drivers to use a 15.5-mile detour route.
Putnam said that project will be finished by early to mid-November.
bjackson@vindy.com