Construction staging is underway for a $12 million project to rehabilitate Longhouse Scenic Drive.

A $12.2 million contract was awarded to Bradford-based Bob Cummins Construction to complete the work, which will include replacement of the many culverts along the national scenic byway.

Allegheny National Forest Bradford District Ranger Rich Hatfield said that the contractor has started mobilizing equipment and establishing “lay down areas” where material and equipment will be stored during construction.

Hatfield said there is not yet an approved construction schedule in place.

“We are anticipating a 14-day closure of the road to thru traffic later this summer,” he said. “This will be part of the schedule that gets approved.”

Recreation sites along Longhouse include Jakes Rocks, Dewdrop, Elijah and Kiasutha.

The Forest Service has partnered with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to bring their project management experience to the table for this effort.

The work will include the replacement of most of the culverts on the road. Repaving, guardrails and signage are also part of the effort.