McKean County Bridge Replacement Funded
Pennsylvania has allocated over $1 million to replace a closed bridge in Otto Township, McKean County. The bridge, located on Berger Hollow Road, was unexpectedly closed in September 2024 due to safety concerns, leaving residents to park their vehicles and walk to their homes.
The funding is part of the Multimodal Transportation Fund (MTF), which provides grants to improve transportation infrastructure across the state. Governor Josh Shapiro announced that 54 projects will receive a total of $47 million in funding, with the Otto Township bridge replacement being a top priority.
Residents and township supervisors were surprised by the sudden closure of the bridge, which had a 16-ton weight limit prior to its closure. The township had been seeking funding to repair or replace the bridge for years but was repeatedly denied. The new funding will enable the township to replace the bridge, improving safety and accessibility for residents.
The MTF provides grants to municipalities, businesses, and other organizations to improve transportation assets, enhance communities, and promote pedestrian safety and transit access. The fund is part of Pennsylvania’s efforts to invest in infrastructure and support economic growth.
According to Governor Shapiro, investing in transportation infrastructure is essential for Pennsylvania’s growth and development. The state has allocated over $1.8 billion in the 2025-26 budget to repair roads and bridges, and has secured an additional $391.7 million in funding for roads and bridges since Governor Shapiro took office.
The next round of MTF grant applications will open on January 5, and applicants will have until February 13 to submit their proposals. PennDOT will evaluate applications based on criteria such as safety benefits, regional economic conditions, and technical feasibility.
