With an eye on public safety, the Falls Township Board of Supervisors is taking a proactive approach to removing and replacing a failing culvert on Rice Drive.
The new culvert will replace the existing corrugated metal pipe culvert system, which washed out following heavy storms.
The culvert failure has left a “pretty significant sinkhole,” according to engineer Joe Jones.
“We certainly don’t want to leave that condition any longer than we have to,” Jones told the board.
During its meeting Monday, the board voted unanimously to approve a proposal from Jones Engineering Associates for engineering services related to the design of a concrete structure spanning the portion of Martins Creek that passes under Rice Drive at Annamarie Drive. As part of the proposal, the firm would obtain professional surveying services, topographic data needed for permits, in addition to preparing bid schedules, advertisements and attendance at pre-bid meetings, bid evaluations and responsible contractor reviews. The firm would also provide construction inspection and oversight, as well as construction administration.
Jones said he expects the project to go out to bid in spring with construction beginning in June or July when the stream is at its lightest.
The road will be closed, and traffic will be detoured during the estimated three months of construction, Jones said.
In other business, the Supervisors unanimously approved a resolution authorizing an intergovernmental agreement between Falls Township and Lower Makefield Township which will allow the contractor selected to undertake the Falls Township 2021 road program to pave the entirety of Elbow Lane and Walnut Lane – each of which lies partially in the respective municipalities. As part of the agreement, Lower Makefield Township will reimburse Falls for fees incurred repaving the Lower Makefield portion of the road.
Supervisor John Palmer set the collaborative agreement followed many work sessions with professionals and neighborhood groups.
“Everybody is happy with this proposal,” Palmer said.
