Bridges: the original social network. Connecting communities since 850 BC.
Bridges: the original social network. Connecting communities since 850 BC.
Why did the truss bridge break up with the beam bridge? It needed more support.
over OHIO RIVER
NBL OHIO RIVER BRIDGE
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This bridge has a Fair overall condition rating of 5 out of 9. While it is not classified as structurally deficient, it shows some deterioration that is being monitored.
The bridge carries 21,344 vehicles per day and is 94 years old (reconstructed in 1957).
Its sufficiency rating of 54.5 places it below the national average of 63.6.
The NBI records a navigation clearance of 89 feet — the minimum vertical space below the bridge deck. The total height of the bridge structure (including towers, railings, and superstructure) may be higher.
For travelers with bridge anxiety
This bridge has some features that may be challenging for travelers with bridge anxiety. See the tips below for a more comfortable crossing.
This bridge is 5396 feet long — an extended crossing, several minutes.
A truss bridge — the steel framework can provide a sense of enclosure.
About 89 feet above ground — an elevated crossing, similar to a 5-10 story building.
About 21,344 vehicles cross daily — moderate traffic, some congestion possible.
The deck is 33 feet wide with 2-3 lanes — moderate width.
This bridge crosses over water. Focus on the road ahead — the water is far below.
This comfort score is designed to help individuals with bridge anxiety plan their travel. All bridges in the National Bridge Inventory are regularly inspected and deemed safe for travel. This is not medical advice — if you experience severe anxiety, please consult a healthcare professional.
Year Built
1932
94 years old (rebuilt 1957)
Structure Type
Steel Truss (Thru)
Total Length
1.02 mi
1644.6 m
Deck Width
33 ft
10.1 m
Spans
4
sections between supports
Max Span
720 ft
longest unsupported section (219.5 m)
Traffic Lanes
2 lanes
One-way traffic
Clearance Below
89 ft
navigation clearance under deck
Clearance height compared to familiar objects
Height shown is the navigation clearance below the bridge deck. The total height of the bridge structure (including towers and superstructure) may be higher.
Daily Traffic
21,344vehicles/day
37.90444°N, 87.55083°W
Steel Truss (Thru)
A steel truss bridge uses a framework of interconnected triangular elements. The geometric rigidity of triangles makes this design extremely efficient at distributing loads.
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Data from the National Bridge Inventory (NBI), maintained by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
Data year: 2025. Conditions may have changed since the last inspection.
This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used as the sole basis for any decisions related to bridge safety or transportation planning. Always consult official sources and local authorities for the most current data.