Wednesday, June, 27, 2007

Representative Tina Pickett
321 Main Street 
Towanda, PA  18848	

Dear Representative Pickett:
I would like to express strong support for leaving the historic Ulster Bridge over North Branch Susquehanna River in Bradford County, Pennsylvania standing next to its replacement, and halting the planned demolition of the bridge. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) is planning to demolish the historic Ulster Bridge as early as this July. For over a century, the 1904 Ulster Bridge’s intricate and impressive metal truss spans have gracefully carried its deck over the river. It is a very beautiful, historic, and rare structure. Demolishing the Ulster Bridge will cost money, and will only result in the loss of a priceless historic structure.

The design of the bridge is rare because not only does it feature four large main through truss spans, it also features a unique series of pony truss approach spans that are quite unique in appearance. The graceful arch shapes of the main spans are both bold yet delicate in appearance. They make crossing the Susquehanna River a noticeable event, yet do not obscure or detract from the natural beauty of the river. The trusses and bracing form a unique geometric art that is replicated in no other bridge type. 

The Ulster Bridge is not in the way of its replacement bridge, under construction just south of the bridge. As a result, the Ulster Bridge could be restored for pedestrian use, perhaps using the costs of demolition toward that end. However, if funds are short at the current time, there is still no need to demolish the historic Ulster Bridge. The bridge could be left standing with no further repairs, and perhaps closed to all traffic including pedestrians. Even this option will retain a beautiful and historic structure for people to enjoy looking at from the new bridge. It will also leave the door open for preservation in the future.

It is likely that future years will see an increase in the awareness of metal truss bridges as the number of truss bridges remaining declines. Counties with many truss bridges, such as Bradford County have a unique opportunity to use their collection of historic truss bridges to promote tourism in the way many counties have used wooden covered bridges. Left standing, the Ulster Bridge will remain as a historic landmark for people to enjoy. It will also leave the door open for future rehabilitation for pedestrian use. Once demolished, there is no way bring the Ulster Bridge back, no matter how much people might want it in the years to come. However, as long as the bridge is still standing, it is not too late to make the right choice. If the bridge is left standing today, the bridge can continue to have a chance at a bright future. Please set aside the money for demolition, and save the beautiful and historic Ulster Bridge! 

Sincerely,