18990_Authority_Feb_2026

Scott Harvey, board chairman, said, “the JRA values the partnerships it has with the communities it serves and enjoys working with those partners on win-win projects.” The project included removal of the existing bridges and installation of a new precast concrete box culvert under Railroad Street and the NBER Mainline; installation of a new approach roadway on Railroad Street and new traffic safety features including structure mounted guiderail and terminal section single end treatments; and the raising of the NBER mainline railroad to accommodate the new culvert. The JRA brought its extensive experience in infrastructure programing and project management to support the borough in tackling this large-scale project. From helping the borough with secure funding to managing engineering, permitting, bidding and construction, the JRA helped guide the process efficiently, minimizing road closures and benefiting the local residents by having the roadway closed for 10 weeks and the railroad closed for only 4.5 days. “During the entire project, I received regular updates from both Steven Beattie, SEDA-COG Joint Rail Authority executive director, and the project engineer,” said Robyn Dyke Milesburg Borough secretary-treasurer. “Their prompt responses to my email inquiries enabled me to keep residents informed about the project’s progress. Having a road detour for two months posed significant challenges for many, but they made themselves available to meet with any resident who had concerns throughout the project,” she said. The new bridge more than doubles the hydraulic capacity of the old structures, helping reduce flooding along Moose Run. It also allows the borough to restore Railroad Street to a full two-lane road after years of lane restrictions. This project shows the power of collaboration and what can happen when local, county and regional partners come together to solve real problems. Supporting efforts like this is how we build stronger, more resilient communities while keeping the railroad operating to support local industry and economic development. S