Beech Creek Bridge

Information and Findings From Pennsylvania's Historic Bridge Inventory

Discussion of Bridge

The 1935, skewed, single span, 149'-long, 7 panel, rivet-connected, Pratt thru truss bridge is supported on concrete abutments with wingwalls. The upper chords are built up box sections, and the lower chords are channels with battens. Verticals and diagonals are rolled I section. In 1985, the bridge was rehabilitated with the replacement of several floorbeams and new stringers, concrete deck, and replacement bearings. Lattice railings were removed and replaced by concrete parapets inside of the truss lines. A single sidewalk with a replacement aluminum railing is cantilevered off of the north side. The bridge is an altered example of a state highway department standardized rivet-connected truss bridge with rolled section verticals and diagonals. The design was used with great frequency beginning in the mid 1920s. The bridge has no innovative or distinctive details. Approximately 150 rivet-connected truss bridges built between 1925 and 1957 remain statewide. Neither the bridge nor its setting is historically or technologically significant.

Discussion of Surrounding Area

The bridge carries a 2 lane road with a sidewalk over a stream in an area of modern commercial buildings and undistinguished, altered, vernacular houses dating from the late 19th through the mid 20th century. A number of the houses have been converted into businesses. The area lacks the cohesiveness of a potential historic district.

Bridge Considered Historic By Survey: No