A state Department of Transportation representative last night briefed borough officials about plans to replace the Curry Hollow Road Bridge, which carries traffic over the CSX Railroad line.

Lou Ruzzi, a PennDOT District 11 bridge engineer, said the estimated $5 million to $7 million project is scheduled to begin in 2011 and should be completed within eight months.

The project consists of shortening and widening the existing structure, providing a designated turning lane at Arbor Lane and installing traffic signal upgrades at Curry Hollow Road. A pedestrian walkway will be constructed on the southbound side. The project is expected to eliminate maintenance and drainage issues associated with the old structure.

Council was told that temporary lanes are planned to permit continued traffic flow on the heavily traveled roadway.

Borough officials expressed a willingness to cooperate with construction activities that could require limited night work, which typically is not permitted by ordinance.

Council also authorized the borough engineer to prepare specifications for this year's road program and to advertise it for bids. The borough has budgeted $420,000 for road improvements to four streets.