Rivnuts from Homestead,PA on 10/29/2022 7:55:37 PM:
The GAP trail website has announced another imminent closure of a portion of the GAP Trail as described below
“Somerset County will deploy contractors to completely redeck the Pinkerton Low and High Bridges and the Harnedsville Bridge as soon as all required permits are submitted, beginning as early as November 1, 2022. This $2.4 million project will require closing the Great Allegheny Passage to all travelers between the parking areas at Markleton (mile marker 50) and Harnedsville (mile marker 59) for approximately two months, depending on the severity of winter weather.
This major rehabilitation project will include removing the entire wooden decking systems of all three bridges, including the aging railroad ties once installed by the Western Maryland Railway, since the decking and ties are nearing the end of their useful lives. Contractors will install new concrete slabs which will last generations. Currently, Somerset County is waiting for final permit approvals, which could arrive at any time, and then contractors will get started. We are hopeful that the project can be completed over the winter so that this nine-mile section can reopen as soon as possible in the spring of 2023.
Please note that this section of the GAP will be completely closed to all travelers. The project area will be extremely dangerous; there will be no deck system on these bridges, each of which traverse the Casselman River, and they will be completely impassable. Additionally, there will be a steady stream of construction vehicles and heavy equipment running on this section of the trail. There will be no posted detour; please enjoy other sections of the GAP.”
Note that the Mt. Savage Tunnel will be closing around early December as well although an exact date has not been announced to my knowledge.