Water Street over the Branch Bridge Replacement

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The Water Street Bridge over the Branch, originally built in 1931, has undergone a remarkable transformation. Situated in the charming town of Elizabethtown, Essex County, New York, this project called for the replacement of the aging bridge to ensure the safety and convenience of the community.

CPL, working closely with Essex County, provided comprehensive preliminary and final design as well as construction inspection services for this Locally Administered Federal Aid assignment. The result is a new bridge that not only addresses functional requirements, but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area.

The replacement of the Water Street Bridge was a crucial undertaking as the original structure exhibited severe signs of wear and tear. Scour, giant cracks, and visible holes compromised the integrity of the bridge, with floodwaters taking their toll over the years. The new bridge not only restores safe passage over The Branch, a tributary that feeds into the Boquet River, but also revitalizes the charm of Water Street, part of County Route 10.

Structurally, the bridge features a 90-foot long precast concrete adjacent box beam superstructure topped with a cast-in-place concrete deck. The use of precast elements allowed for efficient construction and ensured the durability of the bridge for years to come. Furthermore, the parapets were carefully constructed with architectural form liners, and a hand-stained concrete finish was applied to enhance the visual appeal of the bridge, seamlessly blending it into the scenic surroundings.

The replacement of the Water Street Bridge over the Branch stands as a testament to Essex County’s commitment to enhancing the safety and functionality of vital transportation assets.

Photographer: Brian L. Jones Photography