Long-Awaited Betzwood Bridge Near Valley Forge Moves Closer to Construction

Twenty years after the Bicycle Coalition staged a protest over the closure of the Betzwood Bridge, Montgomery County officials are putting together the final touches on the design of the $9 million dollar bicycle and pedestrian bridge. The County predicts that project will be put out to bid for construction in the Spring.

A proposed overlook on the Betzwood Bridge.
The 422 bridge is in the background.

The bridge will provide a connection between the Schuylkill River Trail and Valley Forge. The bridge pathway will be 14 feet wide and will replace the narrow 4 - 5 foot wide boardwalk that was cleverly built over the railing of the adjacent Route 422 Bridge. People on foot or bicycle will enjoy a smoother and somewhat quieter trip between the Betzwood Picnic Area and the Valley Forge Visitors Center.

If the bidding process goes smoothly the bridge will be under construction before the end of summer. It is estimated that the project will take up to 24 months to complete, which means that bridge could be open to bicycle and pedestrian traffic in the second half of 2015.