Montour Trail-Letter

Volume 11, Issue 5

September/October, 2000

July and early August saw the MTC/BB (Montour Trail Council Bridge Builders) reach some significant milestones in the construction of the Quicksilver Bridge.

In late July the structural backfill for the South Abutment was completed. Another tough job done well.

On August 2, 2000 the MTC/BB met for their regular Wednesday work party and placed the 4 CY of concrete for the wingwalls of the North Abutment. This was the last pour of the project - 107 CY total. Well done, Guys!

The removal of the forms from the wingwalls reactivated the decking crew for a big push on Saturday the fifth. The form boards were cut to length and installed to complete the deck. The railing/fencing is mostly completed.

Backfilling of the North Abutment will start in mid-August. It would have been the final task prior to the setting of the truss into position on the abutments, but, due to the project's advancement, the finished truss was ready for placement ahead of schedule.

On Saturday morning, August 12, three Insana cranes and their crews hoisted the truss onto the abutments. Coffee and donuts were on hand as a small crowd, awed by the sight, watched in silence. It was an incredible achievement undertaken by a volunteer group, and totally unforgettable!

But, don't go away, there's more to be done.

Now that the truss is in place, the expansion joints will be installed. Later, the trail will be built.

Many thanks to Robinson Township, (Washington Co.) whose crews swung into activities to support the MTC/BB with the Quicksilver Bridge. The township crews did some ROW (right of way) grading; placed a construction ramp, used to elevate the concrete trucks at the North Abutment; and finished the ramp and final grading at the South Abutment. Also, many thanks to all those who made this day possible. Their cooperation and dedication was key.

WE DID IT!