For a third time, a complex bridge salvage and restoration project undertaken by Hamilton County Parks and Recreation received accolades for its innovative engineering and design.
At its 30th annual Engineering Excellence Awards ceremony, the American Council of Engineering Companies (ACEC), Indiana, presented a prestigious merit award to the park department and its project partners. The effort resulted in the successful installation of a 285-foot pedestrian bridge that now spans White River in northern Hamilton County.
The project, which was first conceived more than 15 years ago, required rescuing out-of-service bridges from two separate Indiana counties, and rebuilding a third bridge with Hamilton County ties, utilizing plans drawn up in the 19th century. Prior recognition for the engineering feat was given by The Great Lakes Park Training Institute and the Indiana Park and Recreation Association.
Thanks to the dramatic new span, pedestrians can now enjoy beautiful river and bank scenery and safe passage between White River Campground and Strawtown Koteewi Park in northern Hamilton County. (Photo provided)
The creation of the unique three-span structure required the dismantlement, transportation and careful restoration of metal truss bridges that served Washington County and Wayne County travelers.
Hamilton County Bridge 21 serves as the third and middle section of the three-section span. Bridge 21 was constructed using the bridge’s original plans, drawn up in 1890. The new span now connects White River Campground to Strawtown Koteewi Park, allowing for safe passage from the campground to the park’s 800 acres of recreational and educational adventures.
“This unique bridge project not only enhances accessibility and safety for its users, it also preserves key pieces of Indiana transportation history,” Director of Hamilton County Parks, Al Patterson noted.
For support of the innovative engineering feat, the director recognized the Indiana Department of Transportation; Indiana Department of Natural Resources; James Barker, PE, VS Engineering; John T. Camden Construction Co.; Washington County Commissioners; Wayne County Commissioners; the Federal Highway Administration; Dr. James Cooper; USI Consultants, Inc.; Halverson Construction Co. Inc.; Maxim Cranes; Hamilton County Council; Hamilton County Commissioners and the Hamilton County Parks & Recreation Board of Directors.
More information about Hamilton County Parks and its mission to serve the community can be found at MyHamiltonCountyParks.com. For details about ACEC, Indiana, visit acecindiana.org.