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Reply to Harper's Ferry Bridge Issue


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Reply to Harper's Ferry Bridge Issue
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EdW from LA, CA on 12/22/2019 11:06:28 AM:
Freight train derails and falls into Potomac River near Harpers Ferry, W.Va. - The Washington Post
https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/freight-train-derails-and-falls-into-potomac-river-near-harpers-ferry-wva/2019/12/21/6970e6f2-240a-11ea-a153-dce4b94e4249_story.html

 
Blue Fork from Atlanta on 1/6/2020 8:47:37 PM:
where can one find updates regarding repairs, and when the pedestrian access will return?

 
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 1/6/2020 9:27:01 PM:
There does not appear to be a scheduled or estimated return to service of the pedestrian bridge across the Potomac River at Harpers Ferry at this time. The Appalachian Trail website below may be the best source of updates regarding repairs.

https://appalachiantrail.org/home/explore-the-trail/trail-updates#WV




 
Matt from Charlotte on 1/9/2020 11:13:38 AM:
DISCLAIMER: I have no real experience and am simply in the planning stages of my trip

it looks like there is a 1.5mile detour that could bring you into Harper's Ferry slightly down the trail using US-340. Granted it looks like a busy 2 lane road, but with a considerable shoulder. This is only an issue if you plan on stopping in Harpers Ferry as the pedestrian bridge only connects the AT and does not obstruct the C&O. Obviously, ride at your own risk.

I had planned on overnighting in Harpers Ferry, but now it looks like Shepherdstown is going to be the better bet.

 
Rivnuts from Homestead, PA on 1/9/2020 3:25:43 PM:
Rt 340 is fast and fairly heavy traffic (at least west of HF which I rode in route to Harpers Ferry (HF)) with some sections where the shoulder narrows. Depending on your tolerance for car traffic, it could be a little daunting.

Shepherdstown would be a fine alternative overnight albeit without the same historical significance but very quaint in and of itself.

Given the historical significance of HF and the traffic from both the C&O Canal Towpath and Appalachian Trails, I would expect that local officials will stress the importance and timeliness of repairs to the pedestrian portion of the bridge by CSX Railroad. I'd keep a close watch for plans and progress which may enable you to maintain your plan to visit HF without traversing Rt 340.