A bridge walked into a bar. The bartender said, 'Why the long span?'
A bridge walked into a bar. The bartender said, 'Why the long span?'
Why was the bridge always tired? Too many crossings.
over NORFOLK SOUTHERN RR
BLAIRSVILLE NO.5
Parametric wireframe generated from real NBI dimensions. Drag to rotate, scroll to zoom.
Loading 3D model...
This bridge has a Fair overall condition rating of 6 out of 9. While it is not classified as structurally deficient, it shows some deterioration that is being monitored.
The bridge carries 29,096 vehicles per day and is 73 years old (reconstructed in 1994).
Its sufficiency rating of 66.6 is above the national average of 63.6.
The NBI records a navigation clearance of 22 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 is likely to be a comfortable crossing for most travelers.
This bridge is 84 feet long — a quick crossing, under 5 seconds at highway speed.
A standard overpass design with solid barriers on each side.
About 22 feet above ground — moderate height, similar to a 3-5 story building.
About 29,096 vehicles cross daily — moderate traffic, some congestion possible.
The deck is 70 feet wide with multiple lanes — easy to stay in a center lane.
This bridge crosses over land, not water — no water views 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
1953
73 years old (rebuilt 1994)
Structure Type
Steel Stringer/Multi-beam/Girder
Total Length
84 ft
25.6 m
Deck Width
70 ft
21.2 m
Spans
1
sections between supports
Max Span
81 ft
longest unsupported section (24.7 m)
Traffic Lanes
2 lanes
Two-way traffic
Clearance Below
22 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
29,096vehicles/day
40.44047°N, 79.25086°W
Steel Stringer/Multi-beam/Girder
A steel stringer bridge uses parallel steel beams (stringers) to support the deck. This is one of the most common bridge types in the US, valued for its simplicity and strength.
Learn more about this bridge typeNo ratings yet. Be the first to rate this bridge!
Sign in and track Pennsylvania to receive alerts when new inspection data is published. Premium members get bridge-specific notifications.
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.