Project to remove canal embankments begins again in Lewes

After a pause for the spring and summer fisheries season, a Delaware Department of Transportation contractor is back at work to remove the bridge structure from the banks of the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal at the former location of the Lewes railroad swing bridge. The historic structure was removed from the site Feb. 15 and relocated to a permanent historical display area at the end of American Legion Road.

The remaining work by contractor R.E. Pierson includes removal of an existing cofferdam on the Gills Neck Road side, installing a new cofferdam around the embankment on the northeast side of the canal, excavating the railroad embankment and repaving a section of the Junction-Breakwater Trail. Work to remove the existing cofferdam is nearly complete. The project is expected to be finished in early January, said Charles “C.R.” McLeod, DelDOT director of community relations.

Work in Delaware waterways is restricted from April to October to reduce impact on the surrounding environment, including fish and wildlife.

At the bridge’s new home, McLeod said, the bearing assembly, ties and rails have been reinstalled on the bridge and a decorative fence has been erected. The Lewes Junction Railroad and Bridge Association has added interpretive signage at the site.

The 103-year-old bridge, which was no longer used, was saved by the association from being scrapped.