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This bridge is a traditionally composed riveted truss bridge in Iowa. It conforms to a standard plan and a number of bridges similar in design to this one remain in Iowa, although the exact size and configuration varies from bridge to bridge making each bridge unique in some way.
The Forest Avenue Bridge is noteworthy for a multiple span
pony truss with excellent historic integrity, including original railings.
Its two-span configuration not only increases its significance, it enhances
the beauty of the bridge as something interesting to cross while traveling
on this otherwise typical rural roadway.
At the very least, the best
representative examples of standard plan truss bridges such as this one
should be highlighted for preservation to retain a record of this period in
history. Longer spans, multi-span examples, and unaltered examples should
receive preservation priority.
In reality however, the majority of
these bridges are fully capable of being rehabilitated for continued rural
vehicular use and there is no reason to even consider the demolition of
these bridges whether highly noteworthy or not. Many of Iowa's truss bridges
are on rural dirt roads that have not been exposed to the extremely
corrosive de-icing salt that bridges in other states have suffered from. As
a result, they retain a comparatively high degree of structural integrity
due to a striking lack of pack rust and section loss. In addition, these
bridges were built with a higher quality of materials and construction than
any modern bridge (contrary to what AASHTO would have you believe). These
truss bridges are much more beautiful than any modern bridge. They
contribute to the Iowa landscape in a positive manner and are an asset to
the state.
Coordinates (Latitude, Longitude):
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Bridgehunter.com: View listed bridges within 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) of this bridge.
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