4th Avenue Bridge

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Description 

This bridge is a nicely preserved example of a very early riveted Warren pony truss bridge. What makes this bridge so unique is that it features three trusses, rather than the customary two trusses that most truss bridges have. The bridge's chords are built-up double-flange members, while the diagonals are individual 90-degree angle members that are riveted back-to-back to either side of the chords to form a "T" shape. The bridge lacks lattice and V-lacing entirely. Even though the bridge is mostly covered up with a concrete sidewalk and is filled in underneath, it appears as though it is mostly intact, including the flooring system. It does appear, however, that the bridge had cantilevered sidewalks, but they have been crudely cut off with a cutting torch. This appears to be the only modification, and it is nice to see that most of the structure has been left alone. The bridge has been preserved in its original location, and is now surrounded by condos and landscaped grounds. The area is beautifully finished, and the bridge being in the center of it enhances its surroundings.

Categories 

19th Century (3,817) Built 1891 (120) Built during 1890s (1,555) Have street view (9,883) Hennepin County, Minnesota (108) Minneapolis, Minnesota (76) Minnesota (916) NR-listed (2,353) Open to Pedestrians (2,084) Owned by city (3,048)

Pony truss (13,215) Preserved (652) Skewed (4,080) Span length 25-50 feet (10,048) Total length 25-50 feet (7,625) Truss (23,562) Warren pony truss (1,987) Warren pony truss with no verticals (19) Warren truss (3,956)

Update Log 

• November 22, 2010: New Street View added by Matthew Lohry
• May 29, 2010: Updated by Matthew Lohry: Updated bridge design and added description
• May 12, 2010: Updated by Matthew Lohry: Updated status

Sources 

• Matt Lohry

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