Jewettsport Ford Bridge

There was quite a bit of controversy about this bridge before the 1989 rehabilitation. The state wanted to close it, but the locals prevailed to have it repaired. Before the stop lights were installed, it used to be quite a game of "chicken" to get across -- the eastern approach is very steep, and you can't see if there's an approaching vehicle on the bridge until you are nearly on it yourself!

In addition to the Davis Ferry bridge, there used to be two more similar one-lane bridges nearby -- one just north at Americus, and one south of Lafayette called the Granville bridge. Both have been replaced.

1912

Alvin C. Baker

George Shelby

Grant Holwerda

County Commissioners

Built by

Lafayette Engineering Co.

GPS: 40.495477,-86.823299

1 4 spans (north face from the east) notice traffic lights to control two-way traffic on a single lane bridge.

2 east span (1 of 4)

3 East approach

4 Dedication plaque

5 Single lane traffic

6 Joint closeup

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This bridge is known as the Jewettsport Ford Bridge.

Its quite an awesome bridge still open to traffic. I guess it is kept strong enough for all legal loads. I'd say to check out this bridge except don't walk on it due to traffic. Leave the walking to the bypassed Davis Ferry Bridge just south of Battleground going into Lafayette.

Its a one lane bridge on an Indiana State Highway system controlled by traffic signals. Apparently the state has taken great care of this bridge and it appears sturdy. There is also the three span through truss Davis Ferry Road Bridge just north of Lafayette over the Wabash. It is closed to vehicles, but does not appear abandoned. I think there may also be a park at the bridge too.