View Information About HSR Ratings
Please view the above National Register nomination form for a good, detailed discussion of the design of this bridge that is supplemented by some drawings at the end of the form. The form also explains why this bridge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Finally, the nomination form included a number of excellent photos showing the construction of this bridge, which are worth looking at.
Although under 50 years old when listed, the bridge was the longest arch span in the world when built, was notable its height, and was notable for linking previously remote areas of West Virginia. HistoricBridges.org normally does not list bridges built after 1970, but due to the National Register listing, made an exception to this rule.
Aside from its records in span length and height, one other unusual feature is the deck of the bridge. The distance between arch columns on this bridge is so great, that a deck truss span system is used to support the deck between arch columns. Moreover, the deck truss approach spans for this bridge maintain a similar design appearance as this configuration on the arch, the main difference being that instead of columns, the truss spans rest on bents which are not a part of the arch structure... yet visually they look just like the arch columns.
This bridge is also a tourist trap, with viewing areas, a gift shop, and even bridge climbing and walks that take place at certain times. The only tourist trap in West Virginia that is larger and more profitable is the SPEED TRAP in Summersville, about 20 miles north of the bridge on US-19, where a lowering of the speed limit unexpectedly occurs and is patrolled constantly by police with nothing else to do other than rake in the profit from unsuspecting drivers.
This bridge and the road it carries was essentially a replacement and realignment of the Fayette Station Bridge.
Coordinates (Latitude, Longitude):
Search For Additional Bridge Listings:
Bridgehunter.com: View listed bridges within 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) of this bridge.
Bridgehunter.com: View listed bridges within 10 miles (16 kilometers) of this bridge.
Additional Maps:
Google Streetview (If Available)
GeoHack (Additional Links and Coordinates)
Apple Maps (Via DuckDuckGo Search)
Apple Maps (Apple devices only)
Android: Open Location In Your Map or GPS App
Flickr Gallery (Find Nearby Photos)
Wikimedia Commons (Find Nearby Photos)
Directions Via Sygic For Android
Directions Via Sygic For iOS and Android Dolphin Browser
USGS National Map (United States Only)
Historical USGS Topo Maps (United States Only)
Historic Aerials (United States Only)
CalTopo Maps (United States Only)
© Copyright 2003-2024, HistoricBridges.org. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer: HistoricBridges.org is a volunteer group of private citizens. HistoricBridges.org is NOT a government agency, does not represent or work with any governmental agencies, nor is it in any way associated with any government agency or any non-profit organization. While we strive for accuracy in our factual content, HistoricBridges.org offers no guarantee of accuracy. Information is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied. Information could include technical inaccuracies or errors of omission. Opinions and commentary are the opinions of the respective HistoricBridges.org member who made them and do not necessarily represent the views of anyone else, including any outside photographers whose images may appear on the page in which the commentary appears. HistoricBridges.org does not bear any responsibility for any consequences resulting from the use of this or any other HistoricBridges.org information. Owners and users of bridges have the responsibility of correctly following all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, regardless of any HistoricBridges.org information.
