PennDOT RATS Bridges

A Multi-Bridge Construction Project

This PennDOT contract included eight bridge structures across the Reading area. Three were completed in 2024, with the remaining five finished in 2025. All five 2025 projects were delivered ahead of schedule and under budget.

Kevin Sanders served as Project Manager, supported by multiple Superintendents across the work.

SR 662 Bridges – Fleetwood

The SR 662 work consisted of three bridge structures within a one-mile corridor. Each required in-stream paving and type-2 concrete repairs. Construction began the first week of February and was supervised by Mike Sanders, Tom Miller, and Steve Aldinger.

Key challenges included water bypass pumping, shoring, limited access, and working with extremely small equipment. Starting in mid-winter added complexity, but completing the work early proved to be a major advantage ahead of peak construction season. Despite harsh conditions, crews successfully tented and heated the structure to meet PennDOT requirements. They refined efficient pour methods and established strong working relationships with inspectors and adjacent property owners. Excellent teamwork and execution under tough conditions.

SR 3022 – Church Road Bridge

This project involved scour protection at abutments and rehabilitation of an existing corrugated steel arch bridge. Work included applying a protective coating, backfilling with lightweight concrete, and pouring a 12-inch reinforced concrete deck.

Tom Miller supervised the project with a small, highly efficient crew. The work progressed so quickly that the team transitioned to another project while awaiting the scheduled paving date. New work items were handled seamlessly with no impact to schedule.

Special recognition goes to operator Pete Nagel and crew, who removed the existing bridge with exceptional care to avoid damaging the steel arch. Outstanding precision and performance.

SR 175 – Morgantown Expressway

This scope included in-stream paving and type-2 repairs to a concrete arch structure beneath Interstate 176. Due to confined tunnel conditions, excavation was completed using a Dingo and a miniature excavator. Access was further complicated by steep embankments and dense bamboo growth.

Ed Saum and Jason Pooler served as Site Superintendents. Ed led initial water diversion and stream paving, while Jason completed Phase II paving and concrete repairs. Both phases were completed on schedule, with the project wrapping up just before the Thanksgiving/Hunting break.

Strong coordination, adaptability, and execution made this a successful close to the project. A big thank you to the entire team for their hard work.