Okatie, SC (January 24, 201 2 ) – Beaufort – Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA) is removing the railroad swing bridge over the Whale Branch River in Northern Beaufort County. Removal of the swing bridge is part of BJWSA’s railroad removal project. Demolition work is slated to begin the week of January 30, 2012, and will be completed by the end of February. During demolition, it will be necessary for the contractor to place the bridge in its locked, closed position for several days.
Performing this change may make it difficult for watercraft to pass underneath. BJWSA anticipates that the bridge will be closed January 30 through February 3; however, weather and other site conditions may cause that closure period to be extended. Boaters are urged to use caution in the area.
BJWSA purchased the Port Royal Railroad in 2008 as a utility corridor. Removal of the rail ties, ballast and rock began in fall of 2010. All work is slated to be complete by summer of 2012.
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