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Major Repairs Planned for West Virginia’s Oldest Bridge
By: Associated Press
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WHEELING, W.Va. (AP) – Officials say major repairs are planned for West Virginia’s oldest bridge.
The Intelligencer reports the state Division of Highways plans to rehabilitate the Elm Grove Stone Arch Bridge in Wheeling in a $5.8 million project that begins early next year. The 202-year-old span crosses Little Wheeling Creek and has seen major deterioration in its stone masonry since it was built in 1817.
Sondra Mullins with the Division of Highways says the work is needed to keep the bridge open for vehicles. The agency says the bridge is “a unique and a rare example of a stone arch that features the elliptical style of arch geometry.”
Traffic would be detours while the work is taking place. Officials are hoping to finish repairs in early 2021.