Fun fact: Covered bridges were roofed to protect the wood, not the travelers.
Fun fact: Covered bridges were roofed to protect the wood, not the travelers.
Why did the bridge go to therapy? It had too many spans of anxiety.
over WATER MERRIMACK RIVER
AT MERRIMAC RIVER
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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 12,065 vehicles per day and is 50 years old.
Its sufficiency rating of 58.0 places it below the national average of 63.6.
The NBI records a navigation clearance of 35 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 1223 feet long — a moderate crossing, about 30 seconds.
A movable bridge — it may occasionally stop for boat traffic.
About 35 feet above ground — moderate height, similar to a 3-5 story building.
About 12,065 vehicles cross daily — moderate traffic, some congestion possible.
The deck is 82 feet wide with multiple lanes — easy to stay in a center lane.
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
1976
50 years old
Structure Type
Steel Movable (Bascule)
Total Length
1,223 ft
372.8 m
Deck Width
82 ft
25.0 m
Spans
1
sections between supports
Max Span
145 ft
longest unsupported section (44.2 m)
Traffic Lanes
4 lanes
Two-way traffic
Clearance Below
35 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
12,065vehicles/day
42.81592°N, 70.87285°W
Steel Movable (Bascule)
A movable bridge can change position to allow passage of boats or other traffic. Steel movable bridges include lift, bascule (drawbridge), and swing types.
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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.