Why did the truss bridge break up with the beam bridge? It needed more support.
Why did the truss bridge break up with the beam bridge? It needed more support.
Fun fact: Covered bridges were roofed to protect the wood, not the travelers.
over OHIO RIVER
AT KY/IN STATE LINE
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This bridge has a Poor overall condition rating of 4 out of 9. This bridge is classified as being in poor condition, meaning one or more structural components have significant deterioration. Poor condition does not mean the bridge is unsafe to drive on, but it does mean repairs or replacement may be needed.
The bridge carries 23,881 vehicles per day and is 97 years old (reconstructed in 1958).
Its sufficiency rating of 46.6 places it below the national average of 63.6.
The NBI records a navigation clearance of 71 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 4926 feet long — an extended crossing, several minutes.
A truss bridge — the steel framework can provide a sense of enclosure.
About 71 feet above ground — an elevated crossing, similar to a 5-10 story building.
About 23,881 vehicles cross daily — moderate traffic, some congestion possible.
The deck is 55 feet wide with 3-4 lanes — standard 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
1929
97 years old (rebuilt 1958)
Structure Type
Steel (Continuous) Truss (Thru)
Total Length
4,926 ft
1501.4 m
Deck Width
55 ft
16.8 m
Spans
7
sections between supports
Max Span
820 ft
longest unsupported section (249.9 m)
Traffic Lanes
4 lanes
Two-way traffic
Clearance Below
71 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
23,881vehicles/day
38.26361°N, 85.75167°W
Steel (Continuous) 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.