| Key Facts |
| Bridge Name | Facility Carried / Feature Intersected | Location | Structure Type | Construction Date / Builder or Contractor |
| Commercial Point Road Bridge | Commercial Point Road Over Scioto River | Rural: Pickaway County, Ohio | Metal Pinned Camelback Through Truss, Stationary | 1913 By: Oregonia Bridge Company of Lebanon, Ohio |
| Technical Facts |
| Rehabilitation Date | Structure Length | Span Length | Roadway Width | Main Spans | Approach Spans |
| 1983 | 710 Feet (216.4 Meters) | Approximately 236.6 Feet (72.1 Meters) | 17.4 Feet (5.3 Meters) | 3 | None |
This bridge is one of the most impressive examples of pin-connected construction in the state of Ohio, due to its long, multi-span configurations. Even just one of this bridge's three spans is an impressive structure in its own right, with each span around 236 feet in length and composed of thirteen panels. This bridge is a relatively late example of pin-connected technology, with a 1913 construction date, however is historically significant for its long, multi-span configuration and impressive Camelback truss configuration. The bridge features a lattice portal bracing. Lattice is also present on the underside of the top chord and end posts. There is v-lacing on the verticals and the sway bracing. This, along with its length combine to make an attractive structure that offers a magnificent "tunnel effect" when crossed. The bridge also retains its builder plaques. The bridge features unusual concrete abutments that have lines carved in them to give them the appearance of stone blocks.
This bridge however is scheduled for replacement by Pickaway County in 2008. This is a poor course of action, since as evidenced by a school bus crossing the structure, it is in relatively good condition and could be restored. With an alternate non-restricted crossing two miles south of this bridge, trucks have only a short detour, a small price to pay to keep this invaluable structure around for future generations to enjoy. As a long structure, this is a bridge that is not only visually impressive, it is historically significant as well. Commercial Point Road is not an essential through route, and is simply a shortcut for locals trying to get around, a purpose that the truss bridge could continue to serve if restored. If sight distance is a concern for this long bridge, a stoplight could be installed to direct traffic automatically.
The demolition of this structure will mark the loss of a beautiful and significant part of Ohio's rich transportation heritage. It also will mark yet another example of how the weak laws in the United States designed to protect historic bridge lack teeth and do not effectively protect historic bridges. Not only is this a very important bridge, it is not even in all that bad of shape, compared to many truss bridges. It is a bridge that deserves to be rehabilitated.
