Design Services for Design-Build Project of Reconstruction of Single Span Iron Truss Bridge
For James A. Gross, Inc., Weston & Sampson provided design services for a design-build project consisting of a reconstruction of a 50-foot single span-iron truss bridge. The construction included abutment repairs, timber deck replacement, and modifications to the truss structure.
The purpose of the project was to reopen the Old Iron Bridges structure in downtown Fitchburg, Massachusetts. The bridge had been closed to all traffic and pedestrians for several years. The bridge now serves as a new gateway into the reconstructed park. The bridge’s main purpose is for pedestrian traffic, but allows emergency vehicles to cross when needed.
The main structural elements were repaired or replaced where necessary to allow the bridge to carry an H-20 loading. A new timber check was designed with new stringers and floor beams to carry the required loading. Modifications were made to the granite block abutments and a new back wall was constructed to allow for the new deck height. New architectural handrails were added to bring the old bridge up to today’s standards for pedestrian traffic.