The Luzerne County-owned Nanticoke/West Nanticoke Bridge over the Susquehanna River now has a weight limit of 5 tons, as informed by county Manager Romilda Crocamo to the county council on Wednesday morning.
Crocamo stated that the decision to downgrade the weight limit was based on a review of the bridge inspection report, discussions with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, and concern for public safety.
The weight limit for the bridge was reduced to 5 tons four years ago, in May 2020.
The decrease was mainly due to deteriorating bearings that were not fully absorbing pressure and vibrations from vehicles crossing the span, which put more stress on other components, according to officials at the time. The second major factor was rusting on the pins that secure eye bars.
The latest inspection report has not yet been publicly released by county officials.
The 2,072-foot bridge is a combination of concrete and steel, connecting Nanticoke and Plymouth Township.
County officials have been considering options to replace the existing span or build a new one.
Officials have mentioned that the average sports utility vehicle weighs about 3 tons, while fully loaded pick-up trucks are closer to 4 tons.
