Most of the other historic truss bridges along this stretch of the Delaware River feature parallel chords, so this polygonal top chord truss bridge stands out as something different. It is also one of the youngest of the area truss bridges, and is capable of carrying a little more weight. Interestingly, despite a 1933 construction date, this bridge has a 20 foot roadway, which seems a little narrower than would have been the trend in the 1930s, especially for a larger river crossing. This bridge also retains excellent historic integrity, with no insensitive alterations noted.
This bridge is owned by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission (DRJTBC). The DRJTBC has a unique commitment to maintaining the many historic bridges under its ownership, and working with the communities the bridges serve, and sets an example for the rest of the country to follow. The front page of their website often features a photo of a historic bridge, and their slogan is Preserving Our Past, Enhancing Our Future. How many other road/bridge agencies in the United States promote their commitment to historic bridges in this way? Not many.
Not only is the DRJTBC an example of how money might be better spent in regards to non-toll bridges, the DRJTBC bridges are also a great reference when arguing that a historic bridge can be rehabilitated and can also safely continue to function as a vehicular crossing.
Information and Findings From Pennsylvania's Historic Bridge Inventory
Discussion of Bridge
The 3-span, Warren with verticals thru truss bridge, placed in 1933 on the substructure from earlier wood truss bridges, is owned by the Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission. It was built to replace a deteriorated wood truss bridge purchased by the joint commission in 1929. Spans are 228', 204', and 220' long, and there are no distinctive or innovative details. Most of the members are built up. The traditionally composed bridge is neither historically or technologically significant.
Discussion of Surrounding Area
The bridge carries a two lane road over the Delaware River between Upper Black Eddy in Pennsylvania and Milford in New Jersey. It connects PA 32 and NJ 519. The Pennsylvania side has 19th century houses in the vicinity of the bridge, but there are too many intrusions, like a gas station, for the area to be a potential historic district. It does not have cohesiveness. The bridge is also considerably later than the period houses on the west side of SR 32 (River Road).
Bridge Considered Historic By Survey: No
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