CR-510 Bridge

Visit MDOT's page for this historic bridge.

News About The Bridge

This was one of the first bridges to appear on this website, and it has remained one of my favorites. It is a pity it is so far away from my home. I have learned that on a new alignment away from this bridge, a new replacement bridge is to be built. I have been in contact with the road commission and have learned that this bridge will not be demolished as part of the project. Rather, the bridge will simply be closed to traffic, with no restorations planed. It is unfortunate that the bridge will not be preserved, but by leaving it standing, it is likely that in years to come a third party will step forward and preserve it.

About the Bridge

This bridge is one of my Michigan favorites, and is the watermark background for this website. This bridge is a Pennsylvania Truss is both senses. Not only is the truss design of the Pennsylvania type, the bridge actually came from Pennsylvania. The structure is pin connected. Extensive bracing, lattice, and v-lacing is all present on the bridge. Once stationed on the Allegheny River, this bridge now enhances a Michigan road with it's highly intricate configuration. According to MDOT, the bridge was erected here in Michigan in 1921. This bridge is in the perfect place. Approaching the bridge from the south, you are on a windy road, and you can not see the bridge until you are on top of it. A "Narrow Bridge" sign is an explorers only clue. Before you know it you round the last curve, and this bridge is suddenly "there" at the bottom of a small river valley. The first-time experience is quite an enjoyable one.

This bridge is still in good condition, with silver paint still dominating the majority of the bridge. A thin glaze of rust is showing through however, indicating that the time has come to consider a full restoration of the bridge. This is both very historic and very beautiful, and it is located on a quiet county highway, and should be preserved.