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HARRISBURG, Pa. – Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn announced the department will be undertaking a rehabilitation of the Kinzua Bridge State Park Skywalk in the Pennsylvania Wilds to ensure it can be enjoyed by visitors now and in the future.
The multi-year project beginning at the end of 2024 will replace and add new steel to some areas of the supports that have been impacted due to exposure to the elements. The skywalk and Kinzua Creek Trail will be closed to pedestrian traffic during the project so the decking and railroad ties can be removed.
Based on initial estimates, the project will not be completed until the fall of 2027.
“During a structural safety inspection it was determined that the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk remains safe but needs some maintenance to ensure its longevity,” Dunn said. “DCNR understands the skywalk experience is most spectacular during fall foliage season and visitors support local economies, so the project will not begin until after the season ends this year and will be reopened for two months in the fall during construction.”
The skywalk will be opened for approximately two months each fall during the project period to allow for fall foliage viewing. The Kinzua Bridge State Park Visitors Center will remain open during construction. The park’s picnic tables, pavilion, playground, and observation deck also will remain open to visitors during the project.
DCNR said the Skywalk is currently safe to access and will remain open to visitors through the 2024 fall foliage season.
Bids on the project are being accepted.
The project will include:
- Remove the decking and railroad ties to access the towers
- Add and replace steel in sections where thinning has occurred
- Reinstall railroad ties and decking
- Install new plexiglass for the viewing area
- Replace the handrails
- Blast clean and paint all of the steel portions of the skywalk
Details remain to be finalized, with a potential timeline following the choice of the contractor being:
- Closure will begin on Nov. 19
- Anticipated project start date in early 2025
- Anticipated project completion date in fall of 2027
There will be temporary closures in September and October 2024 for equipment mobilization and measurements for ordering materials.
Check DCNR’s website or call the park office before you visit.
Work will be stopped during winter weather.
