Timeframe unclear for repair of Dilling Bridge on Lower Trail

Saturday will mark the one-year anniversary of the closing of the Dilling Bridge on the Lower Trail.

At this point, a timeframe to make the needed repairs hasn't been determined.

The bridge, located between mile markers 9 and 10, is near the midpoint of the 16.5-mile walking/biking trail that runs from Flowing Spring near Canoe Creek to Alfarata near Alexandria.

The bridge was marked for closure Aug. 29, 2025, following an inspection by Keller Engineers Inc., Hollidaysburg, which showed a deterioration of one of the bridge's supporting piers.

Rails to Trails of Central Pennsylvania Inc., which owns the trail, immediately put up caution tape and signs to alert trail users that the bridge was closed, but the tape and signs were removed as people continued to use the bridge.

"It was determined by the engineers and structural specialists representing us for this project that the bridge is potentially dangerous, we have faithfully posted that all riders must not use this bridge. In consultation with our insurance company and under the advice of our solicitors, we have posted the trail stating that we will not be held responsible, and anyone who uses the bridge acts outside our advisement and is responsible for any damage/injury to themselves, their property, and possibly for any additional damage to our bridge," said Mike Panek, vice president of Rails to Trails and director of trail conditions and maintenance. "As soon as we replace the tapes and barriers on the bridge, they have been immediately removed by someone. Although I understand that any rider would like to ride without any impediment, removing the barriers does nothing to resolve the problem and certainly does nothing to make the bridge safe for all."

Keller Engineers has drawn up the plans for the project, the money has been raised and contractor Cottle's Asphalt Maintenance of Everett has pledged to do the work.

Work on the bridge began Oct. 28, but Cottle's had to withdraw due to previous contractual obligations. In November, the weather turned cold and windy. Winter set in and work was halted.

Panek said Cottle's will do the work when the schedule permits.

"The last time I talked to Mr. Cottle, there is no reason to believe he is not going to do it. Jennifer (Barefoot, long time Rails to Trails board member) has known this guy for 30 years and he has never failed to deliver on his promise. Mr. Cottle has always demonstrated he is dedicated to the project; we believe it is going to get (it) done," Panek said. "He needs to get a diver and divers are hard to find. We will use a wet application, which requires a different kind of concrete and a skilled individual to do that under water."

Mirror Staff Writer Walt Frank is at 814-946-7467.