RETTEW worked with Lancaster County for more than a decade to prioritize rehabilitation and replacement of their structurally deficient bridges. The Big Conestoga #1 Bridge was the last remaining bridge replacement project, allowing the County to shift their focus to maintenance and preservation of these bridges. The original Big Conestoga #1 was a reinforced-concrete through girder bridge, which included a narrow curb-to-curb width, abutments placed in the waterway opening, and an S-curve horizontal alignment on the approach.

RETTEW developed a single-span prestressed-concrete beam bridge with two lanes and wide shoulders to accommodate the local Amish community. RETTEW also realigned the approach roadway and lengthened the bridge span to place the abutments beyond the edge of stream, all while meeting the requirements of a GP-11. The completed bridge includes an architectural surface treatment that mimics the stone masonry from the original bridge, which not only meets the current standards and regulations, but also enhances the historical value of the surrounding area.

With the completion of this bridge, RETTEW successfully concluded our long-term collaboration with Lancaster County to improve the safety and functionality of its bridges.