Port Royal Railroad swing bridge over Whale Branch to be removed

Update: Part of the trestle has been reopened as a fishing pier.

Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority (BJWSA) is planning to remove the railroad swing bridge over the Whale Branch River.

[Map is below.]

Removal of the swing bridge is part of the railroad removal project and work is slated to begin the week of January 30 and expect to 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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