Swan Road Bridge

Information and Findings From Pennsylvania's Historic Bridge Inventory

Discussion of Bridge

The two-span, 60'-long stone arch bridge built in 1916 has voussoirs, fieldstone spandrel walls, and parapets with some sections of replacement concrete coping. It is supported on stone pier and abutments. The wingwalls have pipe railings. The intrados is pargetted. It is an example of a bridge type that is common from the first two decades of the 20th century in Chester County. The county-built traditional stone arch bridges were favored by the county engineer, and at least 19 similar bridges from 1908 to 1919 have been identified. Stone arch bridges have been in use in Pennsylvania since the late 17th century, and over 350 examples have been identified statewide, with more than two-thirds dating to before 1900. Early 20th century examples in Chester County are considered individually significant in the local context only when they are complete and large or particularly well detailed. This late example with alterations is not historically or technologically distinguished within its population or by its setting and context.

Discussion of Surrounding Area

The bridge carries a 2 lane road over a stream in a rural setting with woods to each of its quadrants. A quarry is located to the west. The area is dominated by a scattered mix of 19th- to late-20th-century residences. It does not have historic district potential.

Bridge Considered Historic By Survey: No

Information and Findings From Pennsylvania's Stone Arch Bridge Management Plan

Discussion of Bridge

This bridge is recommended for the Reserve Pool. The low ranking does not reflect the rehabilitation work that was previously undertaken on the bridge. The condition and transportation codes are both moderate, although the bridge has good sight distance at the approaches and relatively low traffic. It lies in an area of moderate development. Future traffic should increase somewhat, but not beyond what the bridge can handle. Its waterway is adequate. Because the bridge is largely intact, its cost to rehabilitate would be relatively inexpensive. It is not listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places individually or as part of a historic district, and it is not part of a park, natural area, or greenway. The bridge has received no public support.

Ratings

The West Sadsbury, Swan Road Bridge is owned by PennDOT and is ranked 88th.
Condition Code = 48 - moderate
Transportation Code = 47 - moderate
Waterway Adequacy Code = 53 - moderate
Cost to Rehabilitate or Replace Code = 59 - high
Anticipated Development Code = 48 - moderate
Recreational, Historical, and Cultural Values Code = 43 - low
Public Input Code = 35 - very low

Recommendation: Recommended for the Reserve Pool.