Balk Road Bridge

Visit MDOT's Page For This Historic Bridge

MDOT's website does not seem to be correct in its description of the bridge, since it mentioned v-lacing and lattice work, which is not present on this bridge which is designed in a lightweight style. The bridge retains simple angled steel railings, and a wooden deck. It is open to traffic with a three ton weight limit. It appears to be a rare example of a double-intersection warren pony truss. This unusual truss configuration is sometimes called a quadrangular warren configuration. The bridge has six panels, and the connections on the bridge are riveted. Buttresses are present on the bridge to help stabilize the thin profile of the trusses. The structure is in good condition, but needs a restoration to ensure that this rare structure will be around for coming decades.