Unlike some states, Michigan's Department of Transportation does not offer a website showing historic bridges that are available, or potentially available, for relocation and reuse by a third party such as a trails organization. HistoricBridges.org has therefore taken the initiative and created this page which lists bridges which are potentially available for reuse. Bridges that are slated for replacement can often be arranged for a transfer of ownership as part of the replacement project. Counties are often also willing to donate bridges that are permanently abandoned, since the county no longer plans to use the bridges. A select few additional bridges are already dismantled and in storage, awaiting a new owner and reuse. HistoricBridges.org has rounded up all of these potentially available bridges into the list below. As a private website with no government affiliation, HistoricBridges.org cannot guarantee the availability or terms under which a bridge may be available.

Organizations or individuals interested in acquiring a bridge should contact the owner agency, such as the associated county road commission to learn more. HistoricBridges.org may be able to assist with finding the appropriate contact information. Also, the County Road Association of Michigan maintains a directory here.

Learn about the benefits of reusing a historic bridge on a trail system here and view a list of example historic metal truss bridges which have been reused for non-motorized facilities.

Like any bridge, historic or modern, span length requirements, available funds, project schedule, and desired appearance can all play a role in determining which bridge is best suited for the job. HistoricBridges.org may be able to offer some initial guidance in this area. Michigan also has several other privately owned bridges as well as some additional bridges in storage not listed here that may be available as well. If you do not see what you are looking for, please contact us at HistoricBridges.org and we can help you find a bridge that meets your needs. We can also guide you toward fabricators and engineers who specialize in relocating and restoring these bridges, and can also provide sample restoration plans including details such as railing systems that meet safety requirements but go well with the appearance of a historic metal truss bridge.

Also note that for tight budgets or reasons of appearance, a number of these bridges can function without paint, where instead linseed oil can protect the weathered rusty color of a bridges. On the other end of the spectrum, applying the English tradition of using multiple bright colors on bridges to the intricate details of these truss bridges as computer rendered here, or as done on an American style truss in England, would break free from American tradition and create an eye-catching and truly unique icon for a trail.