Preliminary work will begin next week on a project that aims to widen the Freedom Road bridge over the Pennsylvania Turnpike in Cranberry Township.

CRANBERRY TWP — A nearly two-year project to replace a bridge over the Pennsylvania Turnpike will begin next week.

According to information from PennDOT, crews will begin the first phase of the project Monday. That phase includes utility work, surveying and tree trimming near the bridge on Freedom Road in the township.

No delays are expected. The project will continue in the spring with utility line relocation.

The overall projects aims to widen the bridge by one lane in each direction to accommodate heavy traffic volume. Additionally, sidewalks will be added to the structure, which will also be lengthened.

The project is a collaboration between PennDOT District 10 and the state Turnpike Commission.