Vietnam Memorial Bridge
The Vietnam Memorial Bridge serves as a vital transportation link in Western Massachusetts, spanning the Connecticut River to connect the communities of South Hadley and Holyoke. Known locally by several names, including the Holyoke Bridge, South Hadley Falls Bridge, and the County Bridge, this structure facilitates the movement of both pedestrian and vehicular traffic along Route 116.
Key Facts
- Location: Spans the Connecticut River between South Hadley and Holyoke, Massachusetts.
- Current Structure: A girder bridge completed in 1990.
- Route: Carries Route 116 traffic.
- Predecessor: Replaced the Old County Bridge built in 1889.
- Original Designer: Edward S. Shaw.
Engineering and Design
The current iteration of the bridge is a girder bridge, a design where the primary structural support comes from horizontal beams (girders) that support the bridge deck. This design provides the necessary stability and load-bearing capacity to handle the daily volume of Route 116 traffic.
Historical Evolution
While the current bridge was constructed in 1990, the crossing has a long history. It replaced the original Holyoke-South Hadley structure, commonly referred to as the Old County Bridge. The original bridge was commissioned in 1889 and was designed by Edward S. Shaw and constructed by the New Jersey Steel and Iron Company.
Though the 1889 structure is no longer in use, remnants of its legacy remain visible to those visiting the site today.
Bridge Specifications Summary
| Feature | Current Bridge | Original Bridge (Old County Bridge) |
|---|---|---|
| Year Built | 1990 | 1889 |
| Design Type | Girder Bridge | Not Specified |
| Designer | Unknown | Edward S. Shaw |
| Constructor | Not Specified | New Jersey Steel and Iron Company |
| River Crossed | Connecticut River | Connecticut River |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the alternative names for the Vietnam Memorial Bridge?
The bridge is also known as the Holyoke Bridge, the South Hadley Falls Bridge, and the County Bridge.
Which road does the bridge carry?
The bridge carries Route 116, supporting both vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Who designed the original 1889 bridge?
The original structure, known as the Old County Bridge, was designed by Edward S. Shaw.
Which company built the original bridge in 1889?
The New Jersey Steel and Iron Company was responsible for the construction of the original 1889 bridge.
Where exactly is the bridge located?
It is located in Massachusetts, spanning the Connecticut River between the towns of South Hadley and Holyoke.