Covered Bridge On Rapps Dam Road Struck, Closed Indefinitely

EAST PIKELAND TOWNSHIP, PA — The covered bridge on Rapps Dam Road was struck by a vehicle and significantly damaged on Thursday morning, leading to an indefinite closure, authorities said.

It's not the first time that the historic bridge has been hit by a vehicle. Just a few years ago in 2014, a tractor trailer smashed into the structure, leading to its closure for more than a year.

The bridge, which runs over French Creek, was originally built in 1866 and reconstructed in 1978. In 2011, it underwent a $1.5 million renovation project that replaced its deteriorated roof, siding, and decking. The project also installed four new steel beams to support the bridge deck.

The extent of the latest damage to the bridge is not yet clear. Crews with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation must first survey the scene, and once done, officials will have a better estimate of how long it may remain closed.

More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Image via East Pikeland Township