Citation

Cohen S. Calif. Transp. J. 2008; (2): 8-11.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, CalTrans Public Affairs Office)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article explains how the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) repaired Fernbridge, an historic bridge in Northern California after a vehicle crashed into the bridge and damaged 100 feet of the bridge’s railing. The arch bridge, which crosses the Eel River on State Highway 211, was built in 1911, and was heralded as the first of the great reinforced concrete spans in the state. It remains the longest closed spandrel, earth-filled arch bridge in California, and was dedicated as a California Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 1976. Called the “Queen of Bridges,” it is the gateway to the historic town of Ferndale, an historic town. The damage from the crash resulted in the replacement of the entire railing and posts. The article describes how precast concrete pot and rail components were used in the replacement process. Specific texturing methods were used to expose the aggregate, resulting in a weathered look.