View the entire newsletter for more articles: 2025 – NJAC County Biz – May
by Chris Copan, Marketing Assistant, GPI
In a landmark achievement for infrastructure renewal, Mercer County has secured a $47 million federal grant to replace the Lincoln Avenue Bridge in Trenton, marking the largest infrastructure grant in Mercer County history. The project exemplifies how infrastructure investment can transform community connectivity and safety for generations to come.
The Lincoln Avenue Bridge, originally built in 1931 and reconstructed in 1965, is a critical lifeline for Trenton’s underserved communities. At 687 feet, it is the longest county-owned span and connects City neighborhoods, local businesses, and community services, providing essential access for students to Trenton Central High School.
The replacement project tackles significant engineering challenges while prioritizing community needs. The bridge spans both the Assunpink Creek and Amtrak’s busy Northeast Corridor, carrying essential utilities, including gas mains, electrical, and communication lines. Notably, the design ensures continuous pedestrian access throughout construction—a critical feature for the many students and residents who rely on the bridge daily.
The bridge’s significance extends beyond its physical presence as it is Complete Streets compliant by ensuring safe, reliable, and convenient access for all road users—motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users.
During a November 1st press conference, Mercer County Executive Dan Benson stated, “For nearly a century, the Lincoln Avenue Bridge has tied together neighborhoods in our Capital City, and by replacing the aging structure, we ensure this corridor remains safe and accessible to Trenton residents for generations to come.”
The $47 million federal grant, awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Bridge Investment Program, will cover most of the $63 million project cost. This funding stems from intergovernmental collaboration, supported by Senator Cory Booker and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, who recognized the project’s significance.
“This funding will not only enhance accessibility and safety for our community but also ensure that our infrastructure is equipped to meet today’s and tomorrow’s needs. We are grateful for this investment in our Capital City,” said Trenton Mayor Reed Gusciora. The project demonstrates how infrastructure investment can advance not only safe and efficient transportation but also the community’s economic development goals.
Construction will proceed in phases, maintaining one lane throughout to minimize community disruption. The project will utilize local union labor under a Project Labor Agreement, ensuring economic benefits remain within the community.
As counties nationwide grapple with aging infrastructure, this project offers a model for how federal, state, and local collaboration can deliver transformative improvements. The Lincoln Avenue Bridge Replacement Project represents more than just infrastructure renewal—it embodies a commitment to community connectivity and economic opportunity.
Design is expected to conclude in late 2025. Through careful coordination among stakeholders, including local officials, community groups, Amtrak, NJ Transit, and NJDOT Local Aid, along with public input, Greenman-Pedersen, Inc. (GPI) under the direction of the Mercer County Engineer, Mr. Basit (Sunny) Muzaffar, P.E. and the Assistant County Engineer, Jason Mildenberg, P.E. will deliver a safer, more resilient connection for Trenton’s residents for decades to come.